Website Security in Kazakhstan 2026: How to Protect Your Business from Hacking
According to KZ-CERT data, cyberattacks on Kazakhstani websites increased by 43% in 2025 compared to the previous year. Most successful hacks occur due to outdated software and lack of basic security measures.
Kazakhstan Law on Website Security
Personal Data Protection Law
Since 2021, Kazakhstan's updated personal data law requires any website collecting user data to:
- Store personal data of Kazakhstani citizens on servers in Kazakhstan
- Implement technical data protection measures
- Notify users about data collection (privacy policy)
- Obtain consent for data processing
Penalty for violation: Up to 200 MRP (800,000 ₸ in 2026) plus a correction order.
Top 7 Vulnerabilities in Kazakhstani Websites
1. Outdated PHP (7.x and below)
PHP 7.4 received its last security patches in November 2022. If your site runs on PHP 7.x, you're exposed to unpatched CVEs including remote code execution vulnerabilities.
This is exactly what we encountered with egemen.kz — PHP 7.1 on an EOL system created critical risks for one of the country's largest media portals.
2. SQL Injection, XSS, Weak Passwords
Classic attacks remain the most common entry points. Use ORMs with parameterized queries, escape all user-generated output, and enforce strong password policies with 2FA.
3. Missing HTTPS
In 2026, HTTP means: "Not Secure" browser warning, PageSpeed penalty, unencrypted user data, and Google search demotion.
4. Exposed Config Files and Directories
Open .env files, backup SQL dumps, and phpinfo.php pages are common findings in security audits — all exposing sensitive credentials.
Security Checklist for Kazakhstan Businesses
Mandatory (do now):
- [ ] Install SSL certificate with forced HTTPS redirect
- [ ] Upgrade PHP to 8.2+
- [ ] Change all default passwords
- [ ] Block public access to .env and config files
- [ ] Enable 2FA on admin panel
- [ ] Set up regular backups
Want secure architecture from day one? Read our guide on website development in Kazakhstan or describe your project in a brief.