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Digital Fraud Prevention

Kazakhstan Introduces Mandatory Biometric ID for Mobile Phone Subscribers

Kazakhstan is implementing mandatory biometric identification for all new mobile phone subscribers as part of broader efforts to combat telephone and internet fraud, the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development has announced. The ministry noted that the country already enforces several measures to address SIM card misuse, including efforts to prevent fraud, illegal SIM registration, and the use of devices for mass calls and bulk messaging. From the start of 2026, these safeguards will be tightened further. Under the new regulations, SIM cards will only be issued after biometric identification is completed. Communication services will not be activated until the subscriber's identity is verified through facial scanning. The policy applies to both individuals and legal entities. “For businesses and organizations, this requirement also applies to employees issued SIM cards for work-related purposes. Biometric identification eliminates anonymous number usage and increases accountability,” the ministry stated. Authorities expect the measure to curb illegal SIM sales via dealers and intermediaries. Regardless of where a number is purchased, service activation will only occur once the end user’s identity is confirmed. Additionally, a cap has been introduced on the number of SIM cards that can be registered to a single individual: up to ten for personal and family use. Exceeding this limit requires documented justification and identification of the devices in which the extra SIMs will be used. “This approach reduces the risk of mass SIM registration, a hallmark of fraudulent operations,” the ministry added. A key component of the new anti-fraud framework is the expansion of collaboration between mobile operators and the Anti-Fraud Center of the National Bank of Kazakhstan. This cooperation is intended to ensure the swift identification and deactivation of numbers linked to criminal activity. “In the case of suspicious calls or SMS messages, including those made using SIM boxes, telecom operators will relay subscriber information to the National Bank's Anti-Fraud Center and launch an investigation. If fraud is confirmed, the number will be blocked immediately and telecom services suspended,” the ministry explained. As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan also intends to introduce joint liability for banks and mobile operators in cases of internet fraud perpetrated through their infrastructure.

Telecommunications

Kazakhstan to Curb SIM Card Issuance Amid Rising Digital Fraud

Kazakhstan is considering new restrictions on the number of SIM cards individuals and legal entities can possess, in a bid to combat growing digital fraud. The proposal was announced by First Deputy Prosecutor General Timur Tashimbayev during a parliamentary session where the corresponding bill is under discussion. Targeting Scams Through Regulation The draft legislation proposes a cap, either five or ten SIM cards per individual, as well as the introduction of video verification during registration, mirroring procedures used in the financial sector. “Unfortunately, anyone can currently purchase SIM cards with virtually no oversight. They’re sold in stores, handed out during promotions, and it’s nearly impossible to track who is using them and for what purpose,” Tashimbayev said. In collaboration with mobile operators, the Prosecutor General’s Office has also developed methods to detect so-called SIM boxes, devices used to mask international internet calls as local traffic. In the past year, law enforcement seized 78 such devices and over 50,000 SIM cards connected to illegal operations. Data and Legislative Developments Since 2019, Kazakhstan has mandated registration of mobile devices through a combination of IMEI number, SIM card, and the subscriber’s Individual Identification Number (IIN), creating a digital footprint for each user. Despite this, new forms of fraud continue to emerge. In 2023, discussions began around biometric identification for remote telecom services. The plan would require users to provide facial recognition data when registering SIM cards, a move aimed at deterring the use of fake identities. Reclaiming the Numbering Plan In October 2024, Vice Minister of Digital Development Askhat Orazbek announced plans to return control over the country’s numbering plan to the state. Under the proposal, new numbers would be issued via the eGov portal and its mobile app. The initiative also includes differentiating SIM cards by purpose. While private users will face strict limits, legal entities will be required to justify the need for each card issued. “We will cap the number of SIM cards per person. Legal entities issuing them on a large scale must provide documentation justifying their use,” Orazbek stated. Universal SIM Cards on the Horizon Alongside restrictions, Kazakhstan is considering the rollout of universal SIM cards. Enabled by a draft law on virtual telecom operators, these cards would be compatible with the nearest base stations of any network provider, thanks to shared infrastructure access. Adapting to New Digital Threats With cyber fraud becoming increasingly sophisticated, Kazakhstan is taking a multi-pronged approach to enhance digital security. The proposed limits on SIM card ownership, enhanced registration protocols, and the development of virtual operators are central to this evolving strategy to combat telecom-related crime.

Digitalization

Kazakhstan to Require Parents to Purchase Special SIM Cards for Children

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.