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Ahead of upcoming email authentication requirements from major providers like […]

According to Proofpoint research, the vast majority of GCC banks (94%) have published a DMARC record (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance), with 67% (34 of 51) implementing the strictest and most recommended level of DMARC protection ('reject').

According to Proofpoint research, while more than half (57%) of the top 150 Saudi organizations have published a DMARC record (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance), only 21% have implemented the strictest and recommended level of DMARC protection ('reject,' putting their customers at risk of email fraud.

Perhaps more worryingly, only 5 out of 50 (10%) oil and gas companies have ‘reject’ in place, which means a whopping 90% are not proactively blocking fraudulent emails from reaching customers. Reject is the strictest and recommended level of DMARC protection, a setting and policy that actually blocks fraudulent emails from reaching their intended target.

In the MEA region, 26 out of 61 airlines have a DMARC policy published, meaning 57 percent have no DMARC protection in place at all. However, only 4 out of 61 (7 percent) have the full recommended implementation of DMARC to protect customers from fraudulent emails spoofing their domain.

According to a recent study by Proofpoint, Inc., it has been revealed that a significant 84% of the top 100 universities in the Middle East are not taking proactive measures to block fraudulent emails

Proofpoint warns: Top hospitals in UAE and KSA risk citizens with email fraud. Critical findings highlight cybersecurity concerns.

Emile Abou Saleh, said: “Cybercriminals are on the lookout for festive seasons and high sales period to drive targeted attacks through impersonation and retailers are no exception to this. While the Black Friday and Cyber Monday high sales period is a time to grab the best deals, it could also be a potential target zone for cybercriminals to attack.”

Emile Abou Saleh said: “The hospitality sector has worked hard to build consumer confidence in the aftermath of COVID-19, However, our research shows, majority of hotel brands in Dubai could be doing more to prioritize cybersecurity and ensure their customers are less vulnerable to email fraud. This is crucial given that email remains the number one threat vector for cybercriminals.”

The lack of a DMARC record makes companies potentially more susceptible to cybercriminals spoofing their identity and increases the risk of email fraud targeting their customers.