From Virtual Models to Financial Fraud: The Growing Risk of AI Manipulation in Kazakhstan

A surge in "deepfake" accounts is being observed across Kazakhstan’s digital landscape. Experts warn that the proliferation of virtual influencers and AI-generated personas is likely a precursor to various sophisticated fraud schemes.

Current advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) allow for the creation and management of full-scale social media accounts using just a single photograph. Hundreds of such profiles have already surfaced within the Kazakhstani segment of the internet.

IT specialists have identified two primary categories of creators:

• AI Educators: Individuals selling AI-related courses who create images of non-existent people to market their services and build digital brands.
• Malicious Actors: Scammers who design "predatory scenarios" aimed at financial theft. This category remains the primary concern for cybersecurity experts.

Law Enforcement and Fraud Schemes

Law enforcement agencies have received a significant number of reports regarding internet fraud. Criminals are increasingly utilizing diverse AI-driven tactics, including:

• Fabricated Media: Fraudulent photos and videos designed to deceive victims.
• Manipulative Correspondence: AI-generated chats and messages that employ psychological manipulation to extract funds.

Legal Consequences and Regulations

Under the current Constitution and national laws, the unauthorized use and publication of a person’s likeness (photo or video) through Artificial Intelligence is considered a violation of authorship and personality rights. Such infractions are punishable by fines.

Furthermore, current regulations mandate that any content created by Artificial Intelligence must include a specific watermark or label indicating its synthetic origin. Authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and verify the authenticity of accounts before engaging in financial transactions.