The state information policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan is being formed in the context of digital transformation, globalization and the growth of cyber threats. Despite the active development of digital technologies, national media and cybersecurity, the state faces a number of problems that require a systematic solution. At the same time, there are promising areas that can improve the effectiveness of information policy and strengthen the digital sovereignty of the country.

Main problems of the state information policy of Kazakhstan.

Despite the active development of information security, Kazakhstan faces a number of problems:

- increased cybercrime – an increase in the number of hacker attacks, data leaks, and financial fraud.

- the dominant influence of global IT corporations – the need to regulate the activities of Google, Meta, TikTok and Telegram;

- training of highly qualified specialists in the field of cybersecurity;

- development of AI technologies and their use in cyber-attacks – threats related to deepfake and automated fakes;

- increased control over the distribution of information in instant messengers-difficulties in regulating Telegram, WhatsApp and Signal.

To overcome these challenges, Kazakhstan needs to develop national IT personnel, improve legislation and strengthen cooperation with international partners.

Information security and cyber threats. One of the key challenges is ensuring cybersecurity and protecting state information systems.

The main challenges of the information security problems of the Republic of Kazakhstan are:

An increase in the number of cyber-attacks on government agencies and businesses. In recent years, data leaks, information system hacks, and DDoS attacks have been recorded. The growth of digital fraud and cybercrime (identity theft, bank fraud, phishing). Lack of qualified information security specialists. Kazakhstan is facing a shortage of personnel in the field of cyber defense. Insufficient development of national data centers and cloud technologies, which leads to dependence on foreign platforms (Google Cloud, AWS).

The objectives of the country's information policy are to highlight and explain state initiatives and ensure stability. The effectiveness of state strategies, programs and innovative projects, peace and harmony in civil society, and the image of State bodies in general largely depend on the implementation of information policy. In this aspect, the problem is the lack of modern and effective PR approaches in the regions about the positive aspects of innovations in the ongoing reforms in the republic.

Possible solutions to these problems:

- development of the national cybersecurity infrastructure (state data centers, data encryption, increased monitoring of cyber threats);

- increased regulation of the activities of foreign IT companies and mandatory localization of their servers in Kazakhstan;

- training of cybersecurity specialists and promotion of IT education.

Disinformation, fake news, and information wars.

The growth of digital technologies has led to increased problems with the dissemination of false information. Key challenges: Active use of fake news and disinformation for political and economic purposes. The population has a low level of media literacy, which makes citizens vulnerable to manipulation. Problems with the control of anonymous messengers and social networks that are used to spread extremist content and rumors.

Possible solutions:

- creation of a state information verification system (anti-fake platforms, educational campaigns);

- development of educational programs on illiteracy in schools and universities;

- cooperation with global IT companies (Google, Meta, Telegram) to fight misinformation.

Lack of national digital content.

Kazakhstan's information space still depends on foreign content, which limits the state's influence in the media. Main challenges: The dominance of foreign media and Internet resources (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram) that shape public opinion. Insufficient popularity of Kazakhstan's online platforms and media, which reduces their competitiveness. Lack of powerful national social networks and video hosting sites.

Possible solutions:

- development of the state program to support Kazakhstan's digital content;

- creation of alternative national social networks, video hosting sites, and streaming platforms;

- approval of quotas for local content in the media and digital media.

The digital divide and uneven Internet access.

Despite the high level of digitalization in large cities, rural areas remain less covered by the Internet and digital technologies.

The main challenges are: Insufficient high-speed Internet coverage in rural areas. Digital literacy gap between regions. Limited access to public digital services for a part of the population.

Possible solutions:

- accelerated development of 5G and satellite Internet in remote areas;

- state programs to improve digital literacy of the population;

- optimization of eGov for easy access to public services, even with a weak Internet connection.

Prospects for the development of the state information policy of Kazakhstan. Despite the existing problems, Kazakhstan has a significant potential for the development of information policy and digital sovereignty.