The Ministry of Internal Affairs has warned Kazakhstanis about a new cybercrime scheme. Fraudsters offer teenagers money to register SIM cards and messenger accounts, then use those numbers for fraudulent calls and messages.
The ministry emphasizes that transferring SIM cards, accounts, and access credentials to third parties may be treated as aiding a crime.
How the scheme works
According to the Ministry’s Cybercrime Department, fraudsters look for teenagers who are willing to register a new phone number in their own name for a fee.
After that, the child:
• activates the SIM card;
• links the number to messengers or social media accounts;
• transfers access to other people.
These accounts are then used for calls, mass messages, and conversations under the identity of a front user. This helps fraudsters hide their real details and makes investigations more difficult.
Why this is dangerous
Even if a teenager is not directly involved in the fraud, registering a number and transferring access can have legal consequences.
The Ministry notes that such actions may be considered complicity in fraud. Liability applies not only to the act of deception itself, but also to assistance in committing it.
Why fraudsters target teenagers
Since the beginning of 2026, new SIM card registration rules have been in effect in Kazakhstan. To buy and fully use a phone number, users must pass biometric identification.
This has made it harder for fraudsters to buy anonymous numbers in bulk. As a result, they look for people willing to register SIM cards in their own name. Teenagers are especially at risk because they may be attracted by promises of quick money.
What the Ministry of Internal Affairs recommends
Police recommend following several rules:
• do not buy or use SIM cards of suspicious origin;
• do not share your accounts or access credentials with other people;
• do not register phone numbers for transfer to third parties;
• report suspicious offers or activity to law enforcement;
• parents should explain to children that “easy money” from registering SIM cards can lead to criminal liability.