Kyrgyzstan Tackles Cyber Fraud with International Forum

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – In a significant move to address the escalating threat of cybercrime, a high-level forum, CYBERTOR—2026, was convened in Bishkek. This crucial event, co-organized by BAKAI and the Main Directorate for Combating Organized Crime (GUUR) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic, underscored the nation's commitment to safeguarding its citizens in the digital age. The forum served as a vital platform for dialogue, bringing together government officials, industry leaders, and international experts to forge a united front against sophisticated online fraud.

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Cybercrime today knows no borders, and effective combating it is possible only through close international cooperation, exchange of experience, and continuous development of specialists' competencies.

The discussions at CYBERTOR—2026 delved into the evolving landscape of cyber threats, acknowledging the growing sophistication of criminals who leverage advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and deepfake. Real-world case studies and practical defense mechanisms were shared, providing actionable insights for attendees. The participation of experts from Russia and Belarus highlighted the transnational nature of cybercrime and the necessity of robust international collaboration. Vladimir Gusev, a prominent expert from the Omsk Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, rightly pointed out that "Cybercrime today knows no borders, and effective combating it is possible only through close international cooperation, exchange of experience, and continuous development of specialists' competencies."

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My face was used in a fraud scheme: they took a snippet of an interview, processed it through AI, and made a fake video about 'earning money'. It's almost impossible to get to them—everything is organized very professionally.

Personal testimonies, such as that of blogger Meerim Tolepbergen, whose image was used in a deepfake scam, brought the human cost of cyber fraud into sharp focus. This personalizes the threat and reinforces the urgency of the measures being discussed. BAKAI, a key organizer, emphasized its dual approach: strengthening technological defenses while prioritizing customer education. Guldzhigit Zhalilov, Head of Information Security at BAKAI, stated, "The bank has a system for protection against digital risks—from monitoring operations to identifying fake accounts. But the main focus is on education: we work with universities and explain how fraudsters operate. It is important to understand: your safety is in your hands."

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Today, cybercrimes are becoming more complex due to technological advancements. But it is important to remember: criminals are found, and every person must be informed and know how to protect themselves.

This initiative by BAKAI and the Ministry of Internal Affairs is more than just a conference; it's a declaration of shared responsibility. Marat Kakeev, First Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of BAKAI, articulated this sentiment: "Today we are joining forces of the state, business, and experts to counter cybercrime. For BAKAI, this is not just a partnership, but a conscious responsibility for the safety of clients and the development of the digital environment in the country." The forum's success lies not only in the high level of organization and the practical value of the discussions but also in its role in fostering a collaborative ecosystem dedicated to digital security. From Kyrgyzstan's perspective, such events are critical for building national resilience against a threat that impacts individuals, businesses, and the very fabric of our increasingly digital society.

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The bank has a system for protection against digital risks—from monitoring operations to identifying fake accounts. But the main focus is on education: we work with universities and explain how fraudsters operate. It is important to understand: your safety is in your hands.