Cyber Security Council Urges Enhanced Protection of Financial Information
The Cyber Security Council has implored individuals and users navigating cyberspace to fortify the safeguarding of their financial information, highlighting that this data remains a prime target for online malefactors intent on usurping the assets of individuals, enterprises, and institutions alike.
The Council advocated for users to exercise extreme caution when handling financial data online, emphasizing the necessity for proper and secure protection of such information.
It reiterated that every proactive measure undertaken by individuals to shield their data—especially financial information—across the digital landscape significantly mitigates the chances of succumbing to cyber threats, online fraud, and identity theft.
These sinister attacks may manifest as direct assaults on bank accounts and financial details or as indirect schemes, where unauthorized access to personal data and accounts, including email, precedes the theft of financial information.
In its ongoing weekly awareness campaign, the Council accentuated the critical need for perpetual vigilance and precaution to thwart fraudulent endeavors targeting financial and banking data.
Additionally, the Cyber Security Council urged individuals to modify their behaviors associated with online financial data usage by utilizing secure payment methods.
Users should refrain from storing financial information on electronic devices such as smartphones or desktops, routinely monitor bank accounts, and avoid engaging with dubious advertisements or unverified entities outside sanctioned banking channels.
Regular verification of received messages was also advised. The Council underscored that fraudsters are increasingly leveraging sophisticated technologies to masquerade as reputable banks and financial institutions, thus luring users into divulging their financial data.
Furthermore, the Council recommended that individuals adopt a suite of measures to thwart or diminish the incidence of attacks targeting personal, corporate, and institutional financial data through identity theft or fraudulent transactions, which could lead to substantial financial detriment.
Notably, it was reported that 60 percent of cyberattacks initiate with the illicit acquisition of login credentials, prompting individuals to avoid storing sensitive passwords on inadequately secured devices.
Regular reviews of privacy settings on personal devices, deletion of untrusted applications, activation of two-factor authentication, and timely updates of operating systems and software were also advocated.
The council cautioned against utilizing open or public Wi-Fi networks for banking transactions, as these networks often lack adequate security measures and are susceptible to breaches.
It also accentuated the significance of forming robust and unique passwords for bank and personal accounts tied to financial services.
Enabling instant bank alerts for real-time notifications concerning account activity was recommended, enabling rapid response and immediate reporting in instances of breaches or electronic fraud.
The Council reaffirmed that these directives underscore the paramount importance of awareness and caution against electronic fraud, stressing the need for diligence before engaging with or disseminating electronic links, as well as refraining from disclosing personal or financial information. Rapid technological advancements necessitate a sustained awareness of emerging cyber risks.
The Council further articulated that cybersecurity now represents a formidable challenge within the digital realm, asserting that these preventive measures bolster ongoing governmental endeavors to navigate the digital trials posed by swift technological progression.
The Cyber Pulse awareness campaign, now in its second year, has been launched by the Cyber Security Council across various social media platforms.
This initiative bolsters the UAE’s commitment to cultivating a secure cyberspace, shielding users from proliferating digital threats, fostering a culture of cybersecurity, enhancing digital literacy among families and individuals, and fortifying cybersecurity practices to guarantee the safety and privacy of citizens and residents amidst rapid digital evolution.
Source link: Khaleejtimes.com.
