Businesses in the UAE are being urged to bolster their cybersecurity measures in response to an increasing number of cyber threats.
This call to action comes after it was reported that 56% of businesses experienced a data breach in the third quarter of 2023.
In 2023 alone, over 83 million cyber threats were blocked and detected in the UAE. The UAE Cyber Security Council has provided several key recommendations for businesses to protect their digital assets and secure sensitive information:
Key Cybersecurity Tips for UAE Businesses
- Activate Cyber Operations Centers Businesses are encouraged to activate their cyber operations centers and promptly report any suspicious activities. This proactive approach is crucial for identifying and mitigating potential threats.
- Enhance DDoS Protection Companies should evaluate their Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) protections and ensure their systems are configured correctly. Effective DDoS protection can prevent significant disruptions caused by these types of attacks.
- Stay Informed Continuous monitoring of cyber threat intelligence sources allows businesses to stay ahead of emerging threats. By analyzing these sources, companies can better prepare for and respond to potential cyber incidents.
- Update Software and Systems Regularly updating all software, operating systems, and security applications ensures that businesses have the latest security patches. Neglecting updates can leave systems vulnerable to attacks.
- Monitor Network Traffic Using Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) helps businesses detect suspicious behavior early. Continuous traffic monitoring is essential for identifying and responding to potential security breaches.
- Develop a Cyber Incident Response Plan A comprehensive response plan that outlines how to identify, control, and mitigate cyber incidents is crucial. Preparedness can significantly reduce the impact of any security breaches.
- Beware of Phishing Vigilance against phishing attempts is essential, as 54% of individuals fell victim to phishing websites in the third quarter of 2023. Businesses should educate their employees about the dangers of unsolicited messages requesting personal or financial information.
- Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication Implementing two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. Combining a password with a one-time code or biometric scan significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
- Keep Regular Backups Regular backups are vital for data protection. Harish Chib, Vice President for the Middle East & Africa region at Sophos, recommends the “3-2-1 Rule”: keep three copies of your data, store them in two different locations, and ensure one copy is offsite or offline. Reliable backups act as a safety net in the event of a cyber incident.
In the face of growing cyber threats, it is imperative for UAE businesses to take proactive measures to secure their digital environments. By following the UAE Cyber Security Council’s recommendations, companies can enhance their defenses and protect their valuable data.
