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Time of India
04-08-2025
- Time of India
Warning: UAE Cybersecurity Council warns against unverified mobile apps amid rising cyber threats
UAE cybersecurity body has sounded the alarm on the dangers of unverified applications/Representative Image TL;DR : The UAE Cybersecurity Council has issued a nation-wide warning urging residents to avoid downloading unverified mobile applications, emphasizing risks such as malware, financial theft, and data breaches. Citizens are advised to only install apps from official platforms (Apple App Store, Google Play Store), carefully check app permissions, and maintain up-to-date device security. The surge in cyber attacks, with up to 200,000 incidents daily has prompted the Council to reinforce awareness through public outreach and policy measures, as part of the broader UAE National Cybersecurity Strategy . With the UAE's rapid digital transformation fueling record smartphone and app usage, the nation's top cybersecurity body has sounded the alarm on the dangers of unverified applications. In a warning underscored by recent spikes in cyber attacks, the UAE Cybersecurity Council called on the public to adopt strict mobile safety habits, as part of an all-out effort to bolster cyber protection across the Emirates . Reason behind the warning The warning arrives at a critical juncture. In 2025, daily cyber attacks in the UAE have approached 200,000, according to government estimates, impacting public and private sectors as well as individual users . Cyber criminals have increasingly leveraged malicious apps to distribute malware, steal financial data, commit identity theft, and access sensitive personal information, a risk heightened during national events, holidays, and times of increased online activity. Key Elements of the Council's Guidance: Download Only from Trusted Platforms: The Council stresses the necessity of using the official Apple App Store, Google Play, or equivalent trusted sources. Third-party or unofficial app stores common sources of malware and should be avoided completely . Review App Permissions Before Installation: Users are urged to carefully review what permissions an app requests during installation. Excessive access to contacts, messages, camera, or location, beyond what is required for the app's function can be a red flag for spyware or fraud . Keep Devices and Apps Updated: The Council highlights that keeping your operating system and apps updated with the latest security patches is essential, as vulnerabilities are regularly exploited by cyber criminals . Exercise Caution with Links: Phishing remains a popular attack vector; users are told to avoid tapping on links or downloading files sent from unknown or suspicious sources, whether via text, emails, or messaging apps . Awareness Campaigns: These warnings are being reinforced through ongoing public campaigns, including the "Cyber Pulse" initiative, aimed at increasing awareness and teaching practical steps for online self-defence . App security context in the UAE Surge in Mobile Threats: Reports show a 63% year-over-year rise in detected mobile app vulnerabilities in the Emirates, with finance, healthcare, and logistics sectors most at risk . Legal and Regulatory Coverage: Federal laws such as the UAE Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) and the National Electronic Security Authority (NESA) regulations require businesses to ensure digital safety, perform regular audits, and report breaches. Non-compliance can result in steep penalties . Phasing Out Insecure Methods: The Central Bank of the UAE has mandated a transition from less secure authentication (e.g., SMS/email OTPs), pushing for more secure, app-based verification to further reduce common fraud risks . Broader national strategy As part of its Vision 2030 and National Cybersecurity Strategy, the UAE government is investing in: National and Emirate-Level Cyber Initiatives: Multi-tiered strategies including public education, regulatory updates, and enhanced sector-specific protections . 24/7 Threat Monitoring: Establishing Security Operations Centres (SOCs) across government and critical infrastructure to detect and neutralize cyber threats in real-time . Fostering Cybersecurity Culture: Ongoing training, audits, and collaborative drills are now routine for government employees, businesses, and the public, aiming to make robust cybersecurity second nature . How to stay safe: Official recommendations Download apps only from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or official provider sites . Check developer credentials and user reviews before installing any app. Review and restrict app permissions to the minimum needed; remove any app requesting excessive access . Regularly update your device's operating system and installed apps . Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where possible . Report suspicious apps or cyber incidents directly through the Telecom Regulatory Authority , Cybersecurity Council, or your local police cybercrime unit. The UAE's warning about unverified apps isn't a mere caution, it's a direct response to the evolving sophistication of cyberthreats targeting a digitally connected population. By following the cybersecurity best practices outlined above and relying solely on verified sources, citizens and businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability. The Council's latest alert, grounded in real-time threat data and enforced through ongoing public education, marks another step in the country's determined campaign to make the UAE a global model for safe, resilient, and trusted digital living.
TECHx
15-05-2025
- TECHx
Cybercrime in Focus at World Police Summit 2025 Dubai
Home » Latest news » Cybercrime in Focus at World Police Summit 2025 Dubai The World Police Summit 2025 in Dubai brought together global law enforcement leaders and security experts to address key international threats. A major focus was cybercrime, with experts highlighting its increasing complexity and global impact. Held under the theme 'Beyond the Badge: Envision the Next Era of Policing,' the summit featured four specialised conferences and 12 main security tracks. Topics included cybercrime, drug control, border security, and human trafficking. During a key session, Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, introduced the national 'Cyber Pulse' initiative. He announced that 2025 has been declared the 'Year of Community,' aiming to position the public as the first line of defence. 'Our focus remains on people,' he said. 'We are committed to equipping both tech professionals and youth with the skills to confront cyber threats, especially as we enter the era of the Fifth Industrial Revolution.' He warned that technology, if misused, can pose serious threats. However, he reported that the UAE continues to strengthen its ability to detect, monitor, and neutralise cyberattacks. In another session, experts examined cross-border cybercrime. Speakers from the UNODC, FBI, CyberPeace Foundation (India), and Nigerian Police discussed key obstacles to global collaboration. These included legal jurisdiction conflicts, privacy issues, and challenges in evidence collection. Real-world cases were shared to demonstrate how unified global action can succeed. Aviation security risks were also discussed. Europol Commissioner Peter Nilsson cited insider threats, drone attacks, and laser interference as rising dangers. With over 400 commercial airports in Europe alone, he stressed that clear regulations and trained, cyber-aware personnel are vital. 'Every staff member must be cyber-aware,' he noted. The summit also addressed drug trafficking, with a session opening with a short documentary outlining four pillars: prevention, treatment, early detection, and global cooperation. Angela Me, Chief of Research and Trend Analysis at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), reported that over 100 million people globally use illicit drugs. She raised concerns over synthetic drugs, calling them a growing threat due to low production costs and high adaptability. She urged for unified global surveys and increased international cooperation. Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza, Deputy Director of the General Department for Anti-Narcotics at Dubai Police, echoed this sentiment. He stressed the importance of bridging theory and practice and called for fast, coordinated responses to transnational crime. The summit also featured: A panel on intelligence-led security for global events A major exhibition with over 170 international exhibitors Hosted by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB Live and supported by global entities like the IACP, UNODC, and Europol, the event showcased Dubai's role in shaping global security dialogue.
Hi Dubai
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Hi Dubai
World Police Summit Addresses Drug Trafficking, Cybercrime, Aviation Security
Global law enforcement leaders gathered in Dubai for the second day of the World Police Summit 2025, tackling urgent issues from cybercrime and drug trafficking to aviation threats and modern policing challenges. Held under the theme 'Beyond the Badge: Envision the Next Era of Policing,' the summit features four specialised conferences and 12 key security tracks. Topics range from border security to counterterrorism, drawing experts from international bodies including the UNODC, Europol, and the FBI. In a cybersecurity session, Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, unveiled the 'Cyber Pulse' initiative, part of the UAE's 'Year of Community' campaign. The initiative aims to empower citizens—particularly youth and tech professionals—as a frontline defence against cyber threats. He emphasised the dual nature of technology and the UAE's proactive measures in neutralising cyberattacks. Angela Me of the UNODC highlighted rising drug threats, particularly synthetic narcotics, which are easier to produce and traffic. With over 100 million illicit drug users globally, she called for unified international surveys and tighter cross-border collaboration. Dubai Police's Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza echoed the need for bridging theory and practice in anti-narcotics efforts. Aviation security experts, including Europol Commissioner Peter Nilsson, raised concerns over insider threats, drone disruptions, and laser interference. With hundreds of airports across Europe, Nilsson stressed the importance of cyber-awareness among all airport staff and the need for clear emergency protocols. The summit also spotlighted international cooperation in combating cross-border cybercrime, with leaders from the FBI, UNODC, and others calling for unified legal frameworks and operational strategies. Hosted by Dubai Police and supported by major global entities, the summit also features an exhibition of over 170 international security exhibitors. News Source: Emirates News Agency
