Criminological Characterization of Internet Fraud: Experience of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Khamit Edil, Mukhamadieva Gulnar 2, Togaibaeva Sholpan 3, Mashabayev Amanbek 4, Salykova Aliya 5, & Karakushev Salimgerey 6

https://doi.org/10.62271/pjc.16.4.809.822

Abstract

This article examines statistical data on internet fraud in the Republic of Kazakhstan from 2019 to 2023. It delves into the key demographic and social characteristics of both perpetrators and victims, identifying trends in the dynamics of internet fraud. The analysis uses statistical data to explore the age, gender, and occupational characteristics of those involved, with a focus on the most active age groups and the notably high proportion of unemployed individuals among the criminals. The authors highlight the need for improvements in law enforcement practices to better prevent internet fraud, which currently does not match the scale and dynamics of these crimes. New forms of internet fraud, such as online credit fraud and phishing—prevalent types in Kazakhstan—are discussed. The novelty of this work lies in the proposal of specific preventative measures derived from an analysis of international practices and law enforcement experiences in Kazakhstan.

Keywords: internet fraud; crime prevention, cybersecurity, law enforcement, statistics, criminal identity, criminological characterization