LONDON: The UAE Cybersecurity Council has warned of the increased possibility of cyberattacks, especially during the New Year celebrations and the holiday season, and has told the public to “stay alert.”
Authorities and public institutions were told Monday to activate their cyberdefense systems and urged organizations to raise awareness of cyberattacks.
The council also invited anyone who suspects they have been targeted by a cyberattack to inform the authorities and collaborate with them.
According to cybersecurity company Group-IB, the number of cyberattacks in the Gulf region grew by 85 percent in 2021, compared to the previous year.
Experts say that the rise in digitalization of services and online activities in the Middle East is one of the major reasons behind this spike and have warned of the potential risk of cyberattacks in several key sectors, including water, gas and electricity.
As hacking tools have become easier to use, making it possible for hackers to profit from the holiday season, the council stressed the importance of adopting cybersecurity policies and protection mechanisms.
Over the last few years, policymakers have emphasized the need to improve public knowledge about online safety, as well as enhance the awareness of public and private organizations and individuals, which will play a critical role in defending the community from hostile cyberattacks.
The UAE Cybersecurity Council was established in November 2020. Earlier this year, it signed a memorandum of understanding with Cisco to strengthen cybersecurity strategies and efforts in the country.
