On April 15, 2025, Astana Medical University hosted a lecture on the topic “Digital Traps of the 21st Century” and “How to Protect Yourself fr om Financial Fraud.” The session was conducted by representatives of the Department of Economic Investigations of the Financial Monitoring Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan — Nurgali Ayazov and Askhat Nysanbayev.

The main objective of the meeting was to develop students’ practical skills in recognizing fraudulent schemes and understanding the key risks they may encounter in the digital environment.

The speakers spoke about the most common types of financial fraud, including:

• Phone calls from fake “banks” claiming a threat and asking to transfer money or disclose access codes;

• Fake investment offers promising quick profits;

• Distribution of phishing links via messengers and social media;

• Creation of fake websites with falsified payment details and phone number spoofing.

Particular attention was given to scenarios wh ere fraudsters actively target young people. One such method involves fake job offers. Students are offered “remote part-time work” or “money transfer services” without being informed that they are actually participating in money laundering or the movement of illegal funds.

The speakers also provided clear recommendations:

• Never share bank card information or confirmation codes;

• Do not click on links from suspicious sources;

• Carefully verify employers, especially in part-time job ads;

• If suspicious activity is noticed — contact law enforcement authorities.

The lecture reminded students about the key risks in the digital space and ways to protect themselves from financial fraud. Such events help strengthen financial literacy and critical thinking, enabling individuals to recognize fraudulent schemes and avoid falling victim to scams.