Kazakhstan Sees Significant Surge in Banking Fraud Cases

Authorities Warn of Rising Threats

The number of fraud-related crimes in Kazakhstan has seen a staggering increase, with authorities reporting a significant surge in cases. According to statistics released by the Center for Combating Cybercrime of the Criminal Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, 41,000 frauds were registered in 2021 alone.

Alarming Increase in Reported Cases

This represents a massive jump from 33,000 reported cases in 2020, marking an alarming increase of +22.5%. In fact, just in January this year, authorities have already recorded over 2,500 crimes. The head of the Center for Combating Cybercrime, Rustem Dyusetayev, warned that fraudsters are increasingly using digital technologies to commit thefts, with internet scams causing widespread public concern.

Types of Fraud Cases

The statistics reveal that most fraud cases involve:

• Borrowing money: over 6,000 instances reported
• Providing services: nearly 3,000 cases
• Real estate and vehicle sales sectors: over 2,000 frauds reported

Internet Scams on the Rise

Dyusetayev highlighted that internet scams are becoming increasingly common, citing a drastic rise from 14,000 reported cases in 2020 to over 21,000 by the end of last year. Common types of internet fraud include:

• Receiving advance payments for products or services through advertisements
• Applying for online loans on microcredit websites
• Stealing money from bank accounts after obtaining citizens’ personal data
• Fraudulent investment schemes

Authorities Urge Vigilance

Authorities are urging citizens to be vigilant and take steps to protect themselves against these emerging threats.