UAE Thwarts Terrorist Cyberattacks Targeting Vital National Infrastructure

The UAE Cybersecurity Council announced that the national cyber defense system successfully thwarted organized terrorist cyberattacks targeting the country's digital infrastructure and vital sectors. The attacks involved network infiltration attempts, ransomware deployment, and sophisticated phishing campaigns against national platforms. Notably, the assailants exploited artificial intelligence technologies to develop advanced offensive tools, marking a qualitative shift in terrorist groups' capabilities. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the digital domain and urged the public to report any cyber threats through official channels to ensure national security.

Key Points: UAE Thwarts Terrorist Cyberattacks on Vital Sectors

  • Terrorist cyberattacks thwarted
  • Targeted vital sectors and digital infrastructure
  • Attacks used AI and ransomware
  • Public urged to report threats
  • 24/7 national cyber defense system operational
2 min read

UAE Cybersecurity Council announces systematic terrorist cyberattacks targeting vital sectors thwarted

UAE Cybersecurity Council announces successful defense against organized terrorist cyberattacks targeting national digital infrastructure and critical services.

"The national cyber system has successfully thwarted organised cyber attacks of a terrorist nature - UAE Cybersecurity Council"

Abu Dhabi, February 22

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has announced that the national cyber system has successfully thwarted organised cyber attacks of a terrorist nature that targeted the country's digital infrastructure and vital sectors in an attempt to destabilise the nation and disrupt essential services.

In this context, the Cybersecurity Council affirmed that the safety of individuals, the protection of personal data, and the continuity of critical services remain top priorities. It underscored that the national cybersecurity and cyber defence system operates around the clock with high efficiency, in cooperation with service providers, national and international entities, and specialised organisations, while also leveraging strategic partnerships and advanced international technical expertise to strengthen protection, accelerate recovery, and enhance national digital resilience.

The Council indicated that the attacks included attempts to infiltrate networks, deploy ransomware, and conduct systematic phishing campaigns targeting national platforms. The attacks also involved the exploitation of artificial intelligence technologies to develop sophisticated offensive tools, reflecting a qualitative shift in the methods employed by terrorist groups and their ability to harness modern technologies to carry out digital attacks.

The Council reiterated its full commitment to safeguarding the digital domain, preserving stability, and rejecting any targeting of critical infrastructure and civil services.

It urged all members of the public to report any cyber threats or suspicious attempts through officially approved channels to ensure the security of the nation's digital environment and the continuity of its institutions under all circumstances.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
The part about AI being used to develop offensive tools is terrifying. We often think of AI for good, but bad actors are always a step ahead. Our CERT-In teams must be on high alert. Public awareness about phishing is also crucial—my own father almost fell for a scam last week!
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David E
International cooperation is key here. No country can fight this alone. Glad to see the UAE is leveraging global partnerships. India should actively participate in and lead such collaborative cybersecurity efforts in the region. A secure digital space benefits everyone.
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Siddharth J
While it's good they thwarted the attacks, the announcement feels a bit vague. Which vital sectors? What was the exact origin? Transparency builds public trust. I hope our own agencies communicate threats clearly without causing unnecessary panic.
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Rohit P
This hits close to home. Many Indians work in the UAE's vital sectors. Their safety and data protection matter to us too. Proud of the UAE's cyber defence, but it's a reminder for all of us to use strong passwords and enable 2FA. Basic hygiene first!
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Nisha Z
The line about "continuity of critical services under all circumstances" is the most important. Imagine if our power grid or banking system went down. Cybersecurity is now national security. We need more investment in homegrown cybersecurity talent and startups.

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