The UAE Cyber Security Council has disclosed that the country is currently facing over 200,000 cyberattacks daily, originating from cyberterrorist groups across 14 different countries. These attacks are targeting various strategic sectors, with the government sector being the most targeted, at 30%. Other affected sectors include finance, education, technology, aviation, and healthcare. The Council has effectively countered these attacks using the latest global cybersecurity methods, identifying and tracking the sources of the attacks with precision.
Among the attacks, a significant portion was focused on information technology and infrastructure, making up 40% of the total incidents.
Among the attacks, a significant portion was focused on information technology and infrastructure, making up 40% of the total incidents. Other types of attacks included file-sharing breaches, database vulnerabilities, and phishing attempts. The report also highlighted that 51% of ransomware attacks were attributed to the persistent Blackcat threat group. The Council further pointed out that common attack methods include incorrect configurations (27%), malware (22%), and unauthorized access (15%).
As the landscape of cyberattacks evolves, the UAE Cyber Security Council has noted the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybercriminal activities. This includes the use of AI in enhancing malware, particularly ransomware, and its involvement in more complex cyberattacks, such as deepfake and social engineering tactics. These AI-driven attacks are becoming harder to detect with traditional methods, posing significant challenges for cybersecurity professionals who must adapt to counter these advanced techniques.
The Council anticipates that cyberattacks will continue to rise in the coming year, as both public and private sectors adopt more advanced technologies. While traditional attacks like phishing and social engineering remain prevalent, the increasing use of AI in cybercrime is expected to lead to more sophisticated and harder-to-detect threats. The Cyber Security Council emphasized the importance of adhering to cybersecurity standards to mitigate the risks posed by these evolving threats and to safeguard both governmental and private sector infrastructures.
