Kazakhstan's Ministry of Internal Affairs has warned citizens about fraudulent schemes using artificial intelligence. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.

Criminals can fake a person's voice and appearance to impersonate a relative or acquaintance during a call or video call, convincing the victim to urgently transfer money.

The police recommend not to comply with requests for immediate money transfers and to call the loved one back on their usual number. Also, families can agree in advance on a secret word or a control question to confirm the identity of the interlocutor.

Additionally, the Ministry reminded that one should not share bank card details, SMS codes, and passwords with strangers. If fraud is suspected, contact the police.

Earlier, Kursiv reported that a court found three participants of a fraudulent scheme guilty; they posed as relatives of victims on WhatsApp and asked for money transfers. The investigation established 15 episodes of internet fraud, and about 5 million tenge was withdrawn through the account of one of the droppers. Two defendants were sentenced to imprisonment from three to four years and one month, and another to three years of restriction of liberty.

How to Protect Yourself from AI Fraud?

Ministry experts recommend following several simple rules to avoid becoming a victim:

  • 01Never trust urgent requests to transfer money over the phone.
  • 02Always verify information by calling your relative or acquaintance back on their usual number.
  • 03Agree on a secret word or control question within the family.
  • 04Never share bank card details, SMS codes, and passwords with anyone.
  • 05If you suspect fraud, contact the police immediately.

New Methods of Fraudsters

With the development of artificial intelligence technologies, fraudsters have begun using sophisticated methods of voice and video forgery. They can record a real person's voice and alter it using special software, as well as create fake video for video calls. These methods are especially often used against elderly people, who are less protected from technological fraud.

Law Enforcement Measures

Kazakhstan police are intensifying the fight against fraud and taking special measures to protect citizens' money. The Ministry calls on citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious calls. Together with banks and telecom operators, work is underway to prevent fraudulent schemes.

Conclusion

To avoid becoming a victim of AI fraudsters, it is important to take precautions. Remember: no one should ask you to transfer money immediately over the phone. If you receive such a call, first contact your relative and verify the information. Never share passwords and bank details. If you suspect fraud, contact the police.