The Cyber Security Council has urged individuals and users in cyberspace to strengthen the protection of their financial information, noting that financial data remains among the primary targets of online fraudsters seeking to steal assets belonging to individuals, companies, and institutions.
The Council highlighted the need for caution when handling any financial data online and stressed that properly securing such information can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats, online fraud, and identity theft. Attacks may involve direct targeting of bank accounts or financial information, or indirect methods such as unauthorized access to personal accounts, including email, followed by the theft of financial details.
As part of its weekly awareness campaign, the Council emphasized constant vigilance to prevent fraudulent attempts targeting financial and banking information. Officials encouraged users to adopt safe online practices, including relying on secure payment methods, avoiding storing financial information on personal devices, regularly monitoring bank accounts, and steering clear of suspicious advertisements or untrusted sources outside official banking channels. Fraudsters increasingly use advanced technology to impersonate the logos and identities of banks and trusted institutions to trick users into revealing sensitive data.
The Council also advised individuals to take specific measures to minimize the likelihood of attacks aimed at stealing financial data through identity theft or fraudulent transactions, which can result in serious financial losses. It noted that 60 percent of cyberattacks begin with stolen login credentials. Users were urged to avoid storing sensitive passwords on unsecured devices, regularly review privacy settings, remove untrusted applications, enable two-factor authentication, and ensure that software and operating systems are kept up to date.
Using open or free Wi-Fi networks for banking or financial transactions was also discouraged, as these networks are often unsecured and prone to breaches. The Council recommended creating strong, unique passwords for bank and personal accounts and enabling instant bank alerts to receive real-time notifications of account activity. This allows users to respond immediately in case of any breach or electronic fraud.
The Council reaffirmed that awareness and caution are essential to counter electronic fraud, urging users to think carefully before clicking on links or sharing personal or financial information online. Rapid technological advances demand continuous attention to emerging cyber risks.
The Cyber Security Council noted that cybersecurity has become a major challenge in the digital space, and preventive measures by individuals complement ongoing government efforts to address risks associated with fast technological growth.
The Cyber Pulse awareness campaign, now in its second year on social media platforms, supports the UAE’s efforts to build a safe cyberspace, promoting a culture of cybersecurity, enhancing awareness among families and individuals, and strengthening practices to safeguard privacy and security amid the country’s digital transformation.
