UAE authorities have issued a major cyber alert, stating that cyberattacks strike approximately every 39 seconds as digital threats rapidly escalate around the world. The warning comes from the UAE Government’s Cybersecurity Council, which emphasised the rising sophistication and frequency of attacks and urged individuals and organisations to remain vigilant and prepared in cyberspace. Gulf News
Officials highlighted that automation and artificial intelligence are driving cybercrime growth, making attacks faster, smarter and harder to detect. With digital life expanding into every part of business, finance, communication, and government services, the risk landscape has evolved significantly, touching both personal devices and large enterprise systems.
Why the Frequency of Attacks Is Rising
Cybersecurity experts say the increase in attacks is linked to several factors:
- Automated tools that enable attackers to launch mass threats simultaneously
- Growing reliance on digital services for work, education, and daily life
- Expanded use of AI by threat actors to evade traditional defence systems
These elements combine to make cybersecurity a constantly shifting challenge, where defenders must adapt quickly to evolving risks.
Financial Cost of Global Cybercrime
Authorities also pointed out that the financial impact of cybercrime is significant and growing. Estimates suggest global losses from digital crime could reach nearly $11.9 trillion in 2026, with projections climbing even higher in the years to come. These figures reflect direct theft, business interruption, data breaches, ransom demands, and the cost of recovery and defence. Gulf News
While companies and government bodies are investing heavily in digital security, specialists stress that keeping pace with sophisticated threats requires continuous effort, policy updates, and public awareness.
UAE’s Response and Preparedness Initiatives
The UAE has taken proactive steps to strengthen its cybersecurity posture, integrating advanced technologies and collaborative frameworks that prepare both public and private sectors for future challenges. This includes:
- Enhanced monitoring systems to detect unusual activity
- Programmes to secure critical infrastructure
- Plans to address post-quantum cybersecurity requirements (security against future high-power computing threats)
Officials describe the approach as “anticipating threats rather than waiting for them,” reflecting a shift from reactive to forward-looking defence strategies.
Practical Tips to Stay Safe Online
To reduce the risk of falling victim to cyber threats, the Cybersecurity Council has emphasised basic digital hygiene practices:
- Enable two-factor authentication on accounts
- Avoid using public USB charging stations
- Keep software and mobile apps updated
- Reject unknown data-transfer prompts during device charging
- Regularly review and limit app permissions to necessary levels
These simple measures can significantly lower vulnerability to common attacks that target personal devices and accounts.
Conclusion
The warning that cyberattacks strike every 39 seconds highlights the intensifying nature of digital threats in a connected world. For residents and organisations in the UAE and beyond, strengthening online security awareness and adopting preventive habits are essential steps in defending against an increasingly complex cybercrime landscape.
