The original article is in Russian, so here is the translation from Firefox’s built-in translator:

In Kazakhstan, users will be required to provide biometric data, such as images of individuals to connect to cellular services and access to the Internet. This data must be provided by every subscriber who wishes to conclude a contract for the provision of cellular services. The changes governing the provision of communication services are posted on the “Open NPA” portal.

How it will work

• Connecting to services: to conclude a contract with the operator, users will have to provide their biometric data (for example, a photo of the person).
• Termination of the contract: If you decide to stop using the services, you will need to send the operator a statement with biometric data. The termination of the services will occur from the date specified in the application, but not before its submission.
• Transfer number: when transferring the number to the new operator will also need to provide biometric data. The services of the old operator will stop when the new operator begins to provide its own.

Access to the Internet in public areas

To access the Internet through public points (for example, at a cafe or airport), users will enter disposable passwords that they will receive by SMS or call. It will also be possible to log in to the network using identity documents scanned by the operator’s application.

The amendments to the order “On approval of the rules for the provision of communication services” as additional authorization methods are indicated:

• communication with the eGov;
• the biometrics;
• confirmation through the bank card number;
• scanning the document through the operator’s application;
• accounts of social networks;
• e-mail with its confirmation.

These measures are aimed at enhancing security and simplifying the user identification process. However, it should be borne in mind that with the expansion of the collection of biometric data, the need to protect personal information is also increasing.

Why do you need it?

The explanatory note to the changes indicates that confirmation of the identity by biometrics is necessary to combat fraudsters. The project was agreed by the Ministry of National Economy, the National Economy, the National Security Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The public discussion will last until 10 September 2024.