#UAE

Iran’s APT34 Abuses MS Exchange to Spy on Gulf Gov’ts

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October 17, 2024 at 02:08AM APT34, an Iranian threat group, has intensified its espionage targeting Gulf-state entities, especially in the UAE. Utilizing sophisticated techniques, including malware like StealHook and exploiting Windows vulnerabilities, APT34 effectively exfiltrates sensitive data. Their methods risk broader attacks via compromised networks, exploiting inter-agency trust within government organizations. ### Meeting Takeaways 1. … Read more

Mideast, Turkey Cyber Threats Spike, Prompting Defense Changes

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October 8, 2024 at 02:02AM The Middle East and Turkey face increasing cyberattacks, with over 10 incidents per year on average. Cloudflare’s survey reveals that less than half of organizations feel adequately prepared for future attacks, driving efforts to modernize cyber defenses. Despite investments, concerns remain about the security of applications, data, and supply chains. … Read more

Pro-Palestinian Actor Levels 6-Day DDoS Attack on UAE Bank

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July 25, 2024 at 01:02AM A recent distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack on a UAE financial institution, attributed to the pro-Palestinian hacktivist group BlackMeta, set records for its duration and volume. Lasting six days with 4.5 million requests per second, the attack marks a shift from standard hacktivist attacks. The group has also targeted organizations in … Read more

United Arab Emirates Faces Intensified Cyber-Risk

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March 21, 2024 at 01:04AM The UAE is a frontrunner in digital transformation in the Middle East, but faces security challenges due to slow patching and legacy technology. It seems from the meeting notes that the UAE is leading digital-transformation efforts in the Middle East. However, it is facing challenges due to slow patching and … Read more

Gulf Region Accelerates Adoption of Zero Trust

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February 26, 2024 at 01:49PM Zero-trust security adoption is set to rise tenfold in the Gulf region by 2025, with finance and oil and gas sectors leading. Current predictions suggest 10% of large enterprises will have a mature zero-trust program by 2025, driven by the need for robust security in a region experiencing increased cyberattacks. … Read more

UAE Banks Conduct Cyber War Games Exercise

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February 7, 2024 at 10:08AM UAE banks recently participated in a cyberattack simulation to test their ability to combat cyber risks. The Cyber Wargaming event was organized by the Central Bank of the UAE, the UAE Government’s Cyber Security Council, and the UAE Banks Federation. Representatives from various sectors attended, reflecting the UBF’s commitment to … Read more

AI Learning Initiative Launches for UAE Women

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January 24, 2024 at 01:19PM The UAE National Program for Coders will train 100 Emirati women in AI and cybersecurity through the “AI-Forward” initiative, in partnership with Ureed.com and Meem Foundation. The virtual program, conducted over eight weeks, will focus on data labeling and annotation, with quizzes, classes, and flexible schedules. This aligns with the … Read more

AI Program Poised to Advance Cybersecurity in Abu Dhabi

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January 23, 2024 at 03:06PM Abu Dhabi has established the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council (AIATC) to bolster national cybersecurity and advance its AI and technology sector. With a focus on research, infrastructure, and collaboration, AIATC aims to position Abu Dhabi as a leader in AI. Experts anticipate a pivotal role for cybersecurity within … Read more

UAE Banks on AI to Boost Cybersecurity

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December 29, 2023 at 07:04AM The UAE faces relentless cyberattacks due to its aggressive push for a digitized economy. To counter this, it has strengthened its digital borders, forming cybersecurity partnerships with the US, Morocco, and Chad. With a focus on AI, the UAE is also addressing the need for skilled professionals and the potential … Read more

UAE to Chair World Bank’s Cloud Computing Working Group

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December 15, 2023 at 11:19AM The UAE has been appointed as the chair of the World Bank’s Cloud Computing Working Group, acknowledging its cybersecurity support for entities moving to cloud systems. Despite the projected growth of the Middle East public cloud market, cybersecurity threats remain a concern. Dr. Bushra AlBlooshi highlights the UAE’s leading role … Read more