Since the beginning of the year, victims of online fraud in Kazakhstan have been returned 4.8 billion tenge. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Polisia.kz.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the number of online fraud cases decreased by 7% during this period. The clearance rate for such crimes also improved.
Alibek Orazaly, Deputy Head of the Department for Combating Cybercrime of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, noted that cyber fraud remains one of the most common types of crime.
"Criminals constantly change their schemes, use modern technologies, psychological pressure, and try to take possession of citizens' money. Therefore, our main task is not only to detain criminals but also to protect people from fraudsters," he said.
According to him, together with the National Bank, it was possible to prevent the illegal withdrawal of another 2.6 billion tenge. The Ministry of Internal Affairs also pays attention to prevention: together with major platforms, citizens are informed about common fraud schemes, risks, and digital security rules.
Orazaly reported that more than 150 million fraudulent calls have been blocked together with telecom operators. In addition, the Ministry of Internal Affairs is working to identify and eliminate organized criminal groups.
"Together with foreign colleagues, the activities of several international fraudulent call centers have been stopped, dozens of participants who stole money from Kazakhstanis have been detained. The activities of a criminal internet resource through which personal data of citizens was illegally distributed have been stopped," the Ministry of Internal Affairs representative noted.
According to the department, the Ministry of Internal Affairs also interacts with the administrations of major internet platforms. This allows for the rapid identification of criminals who spread false messages, commit fraud, and other crimes against citizens.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs urged Kazakhstanis not to disclose SMS codes, bank card details to strangers, and not to install programs at the request of unknown persons, even if they pose as employees of banks, telecom operators, law enforcement, or government agencies.
"If you have the slightest doubt, hang up, call the organization yourself at the official number, and report the suspicious call to the police," Orazaly said.
He added that work to combat cybercrime will continue.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that an investigation into fraud with foreign tours has begun in Aktobe. According to the Aktobe Regional Prosecutor's Office, the suspect posted advertisements on social networks about organizing holidays abroad, but after payment did not provide clients with either airline tickets or hotel bookings. The investigation is being conducted under the article on fraud.