National Bank of Kazakhstan warns citizens about new fraudulent schemes to gain an access to mobile devices and personal data.

Attackers actively use social engineering methods to gain an access to mobile devices of the citizens. They are especially active in crowded places such as airports, train stations and bus stations, where citizens are often in a hurry and may be less vigilant.

One common fraudulent scheme involves a request to provide a mobile phone, supposedly for an urgent call. In a short period of time, attackers can transfer funds through banking apps or install remote access programs such as HopToDesk, RustDesk, RuDesktop, AnyDesk or TeamViewer on the device.

Use of such programs allows attackers to remotely control mobile devices, access SMS codes, mobile applications, government electronic services, and personal data, which can then be used to commit illegal activities.

A separate threat is collection of biometric data under the guise of free photo or video shoots on the street. Fraudsters, posing as aspiring photographers or mobile photographers, offer to participate in free shoots, supposedly to build their portfolio. The resulting photos and videos can be used to create deepfakes using artificial intelligence technologies. Furthermore, such materials can be used in fraudulent schemes, including sending false messages requesting money transfers.

Due to growing incidence of fraud, the National Bank of Kazakhstan urges citizens to be vigilant, not to hand over mobile devices to strangers, and not to disclose SMS codes, bank card details or other personal information to third parties. 

We also remind you that employees of the National Bank do not make audio or video calls, do not service individual accounts or process payments to the public.

If you run into fraudulent activities, we strongly recommend that you file a report with the law enforcement agencies in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

For consultation, please call the National Bank’s Contact Center at 1477.

For more information mass media can contact:
8 (7172) 77–52–10
e-mail: press@nationalbank.kz 
www.nationalbank.kz