Statement by the International Foundation for Protection of Freedom of Speech "Adil Soz" on Phone Attacks Against Journalists

On March 12–13, 2025, several journalists faced a new method of orchestrated phone attacks that disrupted their ability to carry out their professional duties. Their phone numbers were published in fraudulent advertisements on the OLX.kz . The perpetrators posted fake listings for kittens, puppies, or electronic devices at unusually low prices, leading to a flood of calls to the journalists' phones.

Editor of prodengi.kz, Irina Ledovskikh, reported that her phone automatically blocked more than 50 numbers. Journalist Daniyar Moldabekov (Telegram channel "Pyatoye yanvarya") stated that he received calls every 5–10 minutes regarding a puppy for sale, and his number was also added to a taxi drivers’ chat. Similar incidents occurred with Irina Sevostyanova (Astana), Tatyana Panchenko (Forbes.kz, Almaty), and Yulia Kozlova (Almaty).

The OLX.kz support team responded to journalists’ complaints and began removing the fraudulent listings. However, as soon as one was taken down, a new one would appear in its place. We appreciate the OLX.kz’s swift response, willingness to assist, and efforts to curb illegal actions by the perpetrators. We hope that measures will be taken to prevent the misuse of classified ad services for unlawful actions against journalists in the future.

The International Foundation for Protection of Freedom of Speech "Adil Soz" reminds journalists that they also have the right to protect themselves by filing a complaint with law enforcement authorities under Article 158 of the Penal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan — Interfering with legal professional activity of journalist.