Almaty Police Warn of New Psychological Tactics Used by Fraudsters

The Almaty City Police Department has reported a surge in fraudulent activities involving SMS messages from the 1414 short code. Authorities are warning citizens to remain vigilant against increasingly sophisticated psychological tactics.

According to law enforcement, scammers pose as employees of banks, post offices, tax authorities, or law enforcement agencies. They use emotional manipulation to convince victims to click on suspicious links or install unauthorized mobile applications.

"Fraudsters convince victims that their personal data has been stolen and demand they transfer money or apply for a loan to 'protect' their accounts. This is a baseless psychological trick. It is important to know that a code sent from the 1414 number alone does not grant access to bank loans, as financial institutions have their own independent security systems," stated Anes Kaldybayev, Head of the Cybercrime Combat Unit of the Almaty Police Department.

Common Fraud Schemes Identified:

• Targeting the Elderly: Scammers persuade seniors to withdraw their savings and deposit them into "insurance accounts" or pledge their property as collateral.
• Online Shopping and Investments: Fraudsters offer goods at unrealistically low prices or promise high investment returns. After receiving an advance payment, they disappear.
• "Relative in an Accident": Criminals call victims with false news about a loved one being involved in a car crash, using emotional distress to extort immediate payments.

Police officials report that criminals often receive stolen funds via couriers or digital messenger transfers.

The Golden Rule: Regardless of who the caller claims to be - even if they identify as a bank official or a police officer-never share your personal data, card details, or verification codes. Always verify information independently and do not succumb to psychological manipulation.