UAE’s Cyber Security Council issues warning

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The Cyber Security Council in UAE has urged individuals and online users to strengthen the protection of their financial information, warning that financial data remains one of the primary targets for cybercriminals seeking to steal assets belonging to individuals, companies, and institutions.

In a statement reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the council called on users to exercise heightened caution when handling financial data online and to ensure that such information is properly secured at all times.

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The council stressed that every step taken to safeguard personal and financial data across cyberspace significantly reduces the risk of falling victim to cyber threats, online fraud, and identity theft. These attacks may involve direct attempts to access bank accounts and financial records or indirect methods such as gaining unauthorised access to personal accounts, including email, before stealing financial information.

Weekly awareness campaign highlights growing threats

As part of its weekly awareness campaign, the Cyber Security Council underscored the importance of constant vigilance to prevent fraudulent attacks targeting financial and banking data. It noted that cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting technological advancements to deceive users.

The council warned that fraudsters now use sophisticated methods to impersonate the logos and identities of banks and trusted financial institutions, often through fake advertisements or misleading messages designed to lure users into sharing sensitive information.

Individuals were advised to verify messages received through email, text, or social media and to avoid engaging with untrusted entities outside official banking channels. The council emphasised that secure payment methods should always be used and cautioned against storing financial information on electronic devices such as mobile phones or personal computers.

Behaviour changes needed to reduce financial risk

The council also stressed the need for users to change behaviours related to the use of financial data online. Recommended measures include regularly monitoring bank accounts, avoiding saving card details on devices, and refraining from interacting with suspicious advertisements or links.

It added that individuals, companies, and institutions must take proactive steps to prevent identity theft and fraudulent transactions, which can result in significant financial losses if left undetected.

According to the council, 60 per cent of cyberattacks begin with the theft of login details. It urged users to avoid storing sensitive passwords on inadequately secured devices and to regularly review privacy settings on personal electronics.

Strong passwords and secure networks essential

The Cyber Security Council advised individuals to delete untrusted applications, enable two-factor authentication, and ensure that operating systems and software are updated regularly. These steps, it said, play a critical role in reducing vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit.

The council also cautioned against using open or free Wi-Fi networks for banking activities or financial transactions, noting that such networks are often unsecured and susceptible to breaches. Users were encouraged to create strong, unique passwords for banking and financial service accounts and to enable instant bank alerts to receive real-time notifications of account activity.

Such alerts allow users to respond quickly and report suspicious activity immediately in the event of a breach or electronic fraud.

Rising digital risks demand constant awareness

Reaffirming its guidance, the council highlighted the importance of remaining vigilant before clicking on electronic links or sharing personal or financial information. It noted that rapid technological development has increased both digital convenience and cyber risk, making sustained awareness essential.

Cybersecurity, the council added, has become one of the major challenges in the digital space. The preventive measures outlined complement ongoing government efforts to address digital challenges associated with rapid technological advancement.

The Cyber Pulse awareness campaign, launched for the second consecutive year across social media platforms, supports the UAE’s efforts to build a secure cyberspace. The campaign aims to protect users from growing digital risks, promote a culture of cybersecurity, enhance digital awareness among families and individuals, and strengthen cybersecurity practices to ensure the safety and privacy of citizens and residents amid the country’s rapid digital transformation.