Tokayev orders stricter accountability for mobile operators

Tengrinews.kz - President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has instructed authorities to strengthen the responsibility of mobile operators, citing Akorda.
Speaking at an expanded meeting of law enforcement agencies, Tokayev emphasized the growing threat of online and phone fraud.

"Let me highlight the issue of preventing internet and phone scams, which are on the rise globally. These crimes are often committed by well-organized criminal groups operating from abroad, making investigations much more difficult. That’s why preventive efforts in this area are particularly important," the President stated.

Tokayev recalled the creation of a modern anti-fraud center last year under the National Bank, which is tasked with identifying and blocking suspicious transactions. He also mentioned the introduction of shared liability for banks and mobile operators in cases of fraud involving their infrastructure.

"It is extremely important to ensure the reliable protection of our citizens' personal data. To improve financial literacy and help build public resilience against fraudulent schemes, we must step up collaboration with lawmakers at all levels," Tokayev said.

Another serious issue, according to the President, is the involvement of citizens—often unknowingly—in money laundering schemes.

"Our citizens are handing over their bank accounts in exchange for compensation, without understanding the serious consequences of such actions. In the past 18 months alone, around 50,000 people have been drawn into this activity, the majority of them young people. This situation demands urgent action. The Agency for Regulation and Development of the Financial Market, together with banks, must establish an effective system for early detection and blocking of such accounts," he said.

Tokayev added that the problem is closely linked to the uncontrolled circulation of SIM cards.

"This year alone, nearly 100,000 cases have been identified where SIM cards were registered under false identities. These numbers are used for various criminal purposes," the President stressed.

He instructed the Government and relevant authorities to regulate the sale of SIM cards and increase the accountability of mobile operators for their distribution.