Experts examined the importance of transparency and security in AI applications in Kazakhstan, emphasizing the need for oversight and alignment with international ethical standards. The discussion highlighted both the advantages and potential risks associated with artificial intelligence.

One of the primary concerns raised was the increasing threat to personal data privacy as AI adoption grows in Kazakhstan. Breaches in data security can pose significant risks not only to individuals but also to the state. According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), in 2024, citizens lost 45 billion tenge due to online fraud, with 98% of victims voluntarily sharing their data with scammers.

"Cybercrime is surging at an unprecedented rate, both in Kazakhstan and globally. AI will provide even greater opportunities—including for criminals—if we fail to prepare for emerging threats. Fraudsters are already exploiting deepfake technologies to manipulate video and audio recordings, posing a serious risk to information security. We must consider the de-anonymization of the internet, as every individual should be accountable for the content they share," emphasized Saken Sarsenov, Vice Minister of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan.

The panel featured experts from various countries, including Toju Duke (UK), founder and CEO of Bedrock AI and Diverse AI. Duke is not only a leader in AI-driven businesses but also a strong advocate for ethical AI development. In her book, Building Responsible AI Algorithms, she outlines a framework for ensuring transparency, fairness, privacy, and reliability in AI systems.

"AI is advancing at an extraordinary pace, offering numerous advantages, yet these benefits have not been fully realized by society. Key applications include combating hunger, improving healthcare, responding to crises, enhancing security, and supporting people with disabilities. However, alongside these opportunities, we face major risks: social inequality, privacy breaches, algorithmic bias, and even national security threats. It is crucial to adopt a responsible approach to AI development, establishing mechanisms for transparency, accountability, and ethical compliance to ensure that these technologies serve the greater good," Toju Duke noted.

Other panelists included Dauren Makenov, CEO of Flowsell.me; Alexander Krainov, head of Yandex’s Machine Intelligence Laboratory; Ivan Kononov, CTO of Kscooters; and Damir Zharimbetov, director of TargetAI Limited. The session was moderated by Igor Rogov, Chairman of the Human Rights Commission under the President of Kazakhstan.

Speakers agreed that the safe and effective deployment of AI requires clear regulatory principles, including stringent data processing controls, safeguards against manipulation, and measures to minimize the environmental impact of AI-powered infrastructure. Ensuring algorithmic fairness, eliminating discriminatory mechanisms, and developing reliable AI verification systems before mass deployment were also highlighted as critical priorities.

The discussion also covered the growing need for AI literacy and training, as well as AI’s impact on culture, media, and communications. Panelists explored whether AI will replace traditional jobs or become a tool that enhances human capabilities. The consensus was that finding the right balance between automation and human contribution will be key to navigating the AI-driven transformation of the workforce.

Digital Almaty 2025, held at the Atakent Exhibition Complex in Almaty from January 31 to February 1, is dedicated to “Industrial AI: Technologies for a New Era”. The forum is organized by the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Almaty, and the Autonomous Cluster Fund “Park of Innovative Technologies.”