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Dozens of Almaty residents have been defrauded after enrolling in online English courses advertised on social media and promoted by popular bloggers. The scheme promised language fluency but dissolved after only a month، leaving participants out of pocket and with no way to contact the organizers.

The number of individuals who believe they have been scammed has reached approximately 200 people. They had paid for online courses designed to teach a foreign language، only for the classes to abruptly cease after a month of regular instruction. Subsequently، the school's administration became unreachable.

Social Media Advertising Deceives Consumers

Parents and individuals first learned about the online courses through advertisements on social media platforms. Influential bloggers actively recommended these courses، enticing many to sign up. Intrigued by these endorsements، people paid substantial amounts، with some spending up to 400،000 Tenge for a six-month program.

Financial Police Launch Investigation

Many of the victims reported that they had gathered the funds through loans and installment plans. After the educational center's representatives completely ceased communication، the Almaty residents filed complaints with the police. Currently، a criminal case has been initiated under Article 190، Part 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan، concerning the elements of the criminal offense of "Fraud." All complaints have been accepted، and these individuals have been officially recognized as victims in the criminal proceedings.