Kazakhstan plans to introduce special SIM cards for children, limiting their access to the internet. Deputy Minister of Education Yedil Ospan announced the initiative on March 12, stating that discussions are ongoing with authorized government agencies as part of a comprehensive plan.
“We assume that operators should issue special SIM cards intended for use by children. That is, a parent will be obliged to buy these very SIM cards for their children,” Ospan said.
According to him, these SIM cards will include built-in security filters restricting access to inappropriate content, including certain websites and social networks. Parents will also be able to monitor their child’s phone usage and track their location through a dedicated application.
Ospan emphasized that while Kazakhstan already offers children’s mobile plans with access to educational resources, they do not provide full control over internet safety. The new initiative aims to enhance digital protection for minors.
Research from Kazakhstan Kids Online indicates that official access to digital platforms is permitted from age 13. However, 60% of children aged 9-10 and 66% of those aged 11-12 already have personal internet accounts. In response, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with experts, is developing legislative amendments to strengthen internet safety measures for children.
The introduction of child-specific SIM cards is part of broader efforts to regulate mobile communications in Kazakhstan. The Ministry of Digital Development has also proposed limiting individuals to a maximum of 10 SIM cards, although this measure remains under discussion.
