UAE Cybersecurity Chief Urges Vigilance Against Digital Threats
UAE cybersecurity chief urges vigilance against digital threats
Sumaira FH
Published September 16, 2026 | 12:30 AM
DUBAI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 16th Sep, 2026) Cyber threats are increasingly extending beyond data breaches to affect individuals, communities and critical sectors, according to Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council.
Speaking during a session titled “When Public Opinion Becomes the Target” on the first day of the Arab Media Summit 2026 in Dubai, Al Kuwaiti said more than 85 per cent of cyber threats begin with an incorrect or unintended click by an average user, highlighting how easily individuals can become an entry point for cyberattacks.
“Awareness is the first line of defence,” he stated, adding that cyberattacks can have far-reaching consequences across sectors including aviation, water, and the wider economy.
Al Kuwaiti emphasised strong national systems, regulation, and rapid coordination as vital elements in effectively responding to threats and attacks. He warned that modern conflicts are becoming increasingly decentralised, with cyberattacks, misinformation, rumours, and falsified content capable of influencing public opinion and creating anxiety within communities.
The Cybersecurity Council actively counteracts rumours through official announcements and reliable information, ensuring misleading narratives are quickly addressed. For content creators, he stressed the importance of:
- Verifying information from official sources.
- Upholding the UAE’s cultural and Islamic values.
- Fact-checking material before sharing it.
“Don’t be doubtful about everything, but fact-check anything you share or spread,” he advised.
Despite the risks, artificial intelligence (AI) remains overwhelmingly positive, according to Al Kuwaiti, estimating that more than 95 per cent of AI use is beneficial. He praised the UAE’s robust approach to regulation and governance, which ensures technology is used responsibly, while highlighting cooperation with the private sector as crucial in containing cyberattacks and limiting the leakage of sensitive data.
“Extortion, blackmail, and bullying represent another dimension of the threat,” Al Kuwaiti noted. He also cautioned against the misuse of deepfakes and other digital tools, which can have serious consequences for individuals and communities. Online bullying, he pointed out, can be particularly damaging to young people, with some victims requiring rehabilitation or facing difficulties continuing their education.
Identity theft involving public figures is another example of how false or manipulated information can mislead audiences, according to Al Kuwaiti. While technology and AI can expedite responses to cyber threats, he emphasised they should support rather than replace human judgement:
“We need humans to be at the centre of our response, because criminals are making use of slow responses and false information.”
He concluded by urging the public to rely on official sources and remain vigilant.