In Kazakhstan, scammers have devised a new scheme: first they allow victims to withdraw a small amount of supposed profits, then convince them to invest much larger sums. This was reported by the National Bank, according to infohub.kz.
The fraudsters actively distribute offers on social networks, messengers, and internet forums. They promise guaranteed earnings from “tokenized gold,” “super-profitable AI-based developments,” or a “neural network trading robot.”
To appear convincing, they pose as investment consultants and show potential clients fake high-yield statistics. They then help victims register on a website that looks nearly identical to a real brokerage or cryptocurrency platform. These sites display charts, trade history, a personal account, and even support services, creating the illusion of legitimate investment activity.
Initially, the victim may indeed be allowed to withdraw a small amount. Then they are urged to increase their investment, citing an “exclusive opportunity,” rising returns, or a particularly profitable deal.
When a large sum accumulates in the virtual account, withdrawal becomes impossible. Instead, the scammers demand payment of taxes, commissions, insurance, or other mandatory fees. To feign legality, they send fake documents with stamps, signatures, serial numbers, and other details. After receiving additional payments, they cut off all contact and block access to the fake platform.
The National Bank reminded that its employees do not call citizens about investments, offer financial products, manage personal accounts, insure funds, or conduct transactions with the public.
If you encounter such a scheme, the National Bank recommends immediately filing a complaint with law enforcement. Consultations are available through the National Bank contact center at short number 1477. Earlier, it was reported that scammers increasingly call Kazakhstani citizens pretending to be utility workers.