Cyberattacks Exploit Stolen Logins, Warn UAE Officials

The UAE Cyber Security Council has issued a stern warning to residents, emphasising the growing threat posed by cybercriminals targeting financial data. According to the Council, banking and payment information remains one of the most sought-after commodities in the digital underworld.

The Council noted that fraudsters are increasingly adopting a dual strategy: direct attacks on bank accounts and indirect approaches, such as identity theft. In the latter, criminals first compromise email or personal accounts to gain access to sensitive financial information.

As part of its weekly awareness drive, the Council stressed that simple precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of online fraud. “Being vigilant when sharing financial information and ensuring that personal data is consistently protected can prevent the majority of attacks,” a spokesperson said.

Residents are advised to use secure payment methods, refrain from storing bank details on mobile devices or personal computers, and monitor account activity regularly for any suspicious transactions. The Council also cautioned against interacting with fraudulent advertisements or unverified messages, pointing out that cybercriminals are now using sophisticated technology to imitate bank branding and trusted financial institutions convincingly.

Highlighting the scale of the threat, the Council revealed that approximately 60 per cent of cyberattacks originate from stolen login credentials. To mitigate this risk, it urged users to avoid saving passwords on unsecured devices, enable two-factor authentication, maintain updated software, and uninstall any untrusted applications.

The Council also advised against conducting banking or financial transactions over public or free Wi-Fi networks. Instead, users should employ strong, unique passwords and activate instant bank alerts to detect any unusual activity promptly.

These recommendations form part of the Council’s “Cyber Pulse” campaign, now in its second year, which aims to cultivate safer online behaviour, enhance digital awareness, and bolster the UAE’s broader strategy to create a secure and resilient cyberspace amid rapid technological evolution.

Key Cybersecurity Measures for Financial Safety

The Council’s message is clear: a proactive and informed approach to digital security is crucial to protecting financial assets in today’s increasingly connected world.