Massive Data Breach in Kazakhstan: 140+ Arrested in Cybercrime Crackdown

Kazakhstan Cracks Down on Illegal Personal Data Trade: Over 140 Detained NUR-SULTAN, Kazakhstan – In a major crackdown on cybercrime, Kazakh authorities have announced the arrest of over 140 individuals involved in the illegal sale of personal data. The operation, a joint effort by the Ministry of Internal Affairs' cybercrime department and the National Security Committee (KNB), targeted a criminal network that obtained sensitive information from government databases and distributed it through Telegram channels. The data was also allegedly sold to debt collection agencies. "More than 140 people have been detained, including company owners and channel administrators," stated Zhandos Suinbay, head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs' cybercrime department, as reported by Azattyq Rýhy. "Five suspects are currently under arrest." Authorities conducted raids, seizing over 400 computers and other electronic devices. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on identifying all those involved in this extensive data breach. The scale of the operation underscores the growing threat of cybercrime and the importance of protecting personal data in the digital age. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has pledged to continue its efforts to prevent data leaks and combat digital security threats. This successful operation sends a strong message that the Kazakh government is committed to combating cybercrime and protecting its citizens' digital privacy.