In a stark warning for businesses across the nation, the UAE Cyber Security Council has revealed that 56% of companies suffered a data breach in the third quarter of 2023. This alarming statistic comes amidst an environment where over 83 million cyber threats were detected and blocked in the UAE last year.
With the increasing number of cyber threats targeting various sectors, the Council is urging businesses to take immediate action to secure their digital environments. Here are key recommendations to enhance cybersecurity:
1. Activate Cyber Operations Centers
Businesses are advised to establish a cyber operations center to monitor systems and report any unusual or suspicious activities.
2. Enhance DDoS Protection
Firms should evaluate their Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) protection services from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and ensure their configurations are effective against potential attacks.
3. Stay Informed
Proactively monitoring and assessing cyber threat intelligence is essential for analyzing emerging threats and safeguarding company data.
4. Update Software Regularly
Keeping all software, operating systems, and security applications up to date is crucial. Regular updates ensure that the latest security patches are applied, reducing vulnerability to attacks.
5. Monitor Network Traffic
Businesses are encouraged to utilize Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) to monitor network traffic and detect suspicious behavior promptly.
6. Develop an Incident Response Plan
A comprehensive cyber incident response plan should be developed to identify, control, and mitigate the impact of potential cyber incidents.
7. Beware of Phishing Attacks
With 54% of individuals falling victim to phishing websites in Q3 2023 and 19% targeted by social media scams, vigilance is paramount. Businesses must remain cautious of unsolicited messages requesting personal or financial information.
8. Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
Implementing strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can significantly enhance account security. This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring both something the user knows and something they possess.
9. Keep Backups Secure
To protect important data, businesses should maintain secure backups. Harish Chib, Vice President for the Middle East & Africa at Sophos, emphasizes the importance of the “3-2-1 Rule”: keep three copies of data, store them in two different locations, and ensure one is offsite or offline.
“Reliable backups act as both a parachute and a safety net for organizations,”
Chib noted.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more critical. The UAE Cyber Security Council's proactive guidance serves as a vital roadmap for businesses aiming to safeguard their digital assets and maintain operational integrity in an increasingly perilous cyber landscape.
News Source: Khaleej Times
