UAE cyber security chief reveals hacker demanded more than $5m in attack on private company
A hacker demanded a ransom of more than $5 million after breaching a private sector company in the UAE, the country's cyber security chief has said. Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, head of cyber security for the UAE Government, said the attack involved the destruction of data linked to the company's infrastructure and an attempt to leak stolen information . “I got a phone call from the hacker, and he…
The cyber security chief of the United Arab Emirates disclosed that a hacker had demanded a ransom exceeding $5 million following a breach of a private sector company within the country. Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, the head of cyber security for the UAE Government, revealed that the attack encompassed the destruction of data related to the company's infrastructure and an attempt to disseminate stolen information.
During a panel discussion at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai, Dr Al Kuwaiti informed Sky News Arabia's Sami Kasmi that the hacker called him to make the ransom demand. He added that the attacker was aware of details concerning the organization and that stolen data had been shared on Telegram and the dark web. The authorities collaborated with the private sector to thwart the attack and prevent the leak of sensitive data.
The incident highlights the escalating cyber security challenges faced by the UAE, which has reported hundreds of thousands of daily cyber attacks, increasingly employing artificial intelligence alongside ransomware, data breaches, and other tactics. Dr Al Kuwaiti cautioned that cyber threats extend beyond computer system attacks to include attempts to manipulate public perception through misinformation, rumors, and manipulated content, contributing to what he termed "fifth-generation warfare."
The chief emphasized the importance of human oversight in addressing false information, particularly in light of recent cases involving manipulated content and online bullying that have significantly impacted individuals and communities. Despite these challenges, Dr Al Kuwaiti highlighted the predominantly positive impact of artificial intelligence, asserting that 95% of interactions involving the technology are beneficial.
The UAE has implemented policies and ethical frameworks governing AI, including the establishment of the Cyber Factory to bolster the nation's defenses against cyber attacks and promote digital sovereignty. However, Dr Al Kuwaiti stressed the necessity of responsible use and urged social media influencers and content creators to exercise caution and transparency when sharing information.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
