Kazakhstan to Hold Banks and Mobile Operators Liable for Online Fraud Losses
Kazakhstan will introduce joint liability for banks and mobile operators in cases of internet fraud involving their infrastructure, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced during an extended meeting of the country’s law enforcement agencies. Addressing the growing threat of cybercrime, Tokayev emphasized the importance of prevention, noting that many internet and phone scams originate from well-organized criminal networks operating abroad, complicating investigation and prosecution. “Preventive measures are therefore crucial. Last year, a modern anti-fraud center was established at the National Bank of Kazakhstan to detect and block suspicious transactions,” Tokayev said. “We are now introducing joint liability for banks and mobile operators in fraud cases involving their infrastructure.” Tokayev also raised concerns over citizens' involvement in money laundering schemes. “Fraudsters lure people into laundering operations by offering rewards for access to their bank accounts. Many comply without considering the severe legal consequences,” he noted. A major enabler of these crimes is the widespread use of SIM cards registered under false identities. According to the president, nearly 100,000 such cases have been detected so far in 2025. The National Bank reported that since July 2024, the anti-fraud center has frozen over 63,000 suspicious transactions worth 2.5 billion tenge (approximately $4.83 million). Common schemes include telephone scams (22%), fake investment platforms (19%), and misuse of so-called “dropper” cards (19%).Continue reading
