The Cyber Security Council has announced renewed warnings for individuals and users in cyberspace to strengthen the protection of their financial information. The Council reported that Cyber Security threats targeting financial data remain among the most common forms of online fraud affecting individuals, companies, and institutions.

According to the Council, financial data is a primary target for cybercriminals seeking to steal assets. Therefore, individuals were urged to exercise caution when handling financial information online and to ensure such data is properly secured at all times.

Furthermore, the Council revealed that taking proactive steps to safeguard financial data across cyberspace significantly reduces the risk of cyber threats, online fraud, and identity theft. These attacks may occur through direct attempts on bank accounts or indirectly through unauthorised access to personal data, including email accounts, which can later be used to steal financial information.

As part of its weekly awareness campaign, the Council highlighted the importance of continuous vigilance to prevent fraudulent activities aimed at banking and financial data.

In addition, the Council advised individuals to change online behaviours related to financial data usage. This includes relying on secure payment methods and avoiding the storage of financial information on electronic devices such as mobile phones and personal computers. Regular monitoring of bank accounts was also encouraged.

The Council further cautioned against engaging with fake advertisements or untrusted entities outside official banking channels. It reported that fraudsters increasingly use advanced technologies to impersonate the logos and identities of banks and financial institutions to deceive users.

To reduce the likelihood of financial data theft through identity fraud or unauthorised transactions, the Council outlined several preventive measures:

• Avoid storing sensitive passwords on unsecured devices
• Enable two-factor authentication and instant bank alerts
• Regularly update operating systems and software

The Council noted that around 60 percent of cyberattacks begin with the theft of login credentials. As a result, individuals were urged to review privacy settings, remove untrusted applications, and use strong, unique passwords for banking and financial service accounts.

Moreover, the Council advised against using open or free Wi-Fi networks for banking activities, as these networks are often unsecured and vulnerable to breaches. Enabling real-time bank notifications was also recommended to allow immediate action in case of suspicious activity.

The Council reaffirmed that increased awareness and caution are essential to counter electronic fraud. Users were reminded to verify messages, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and refrain from sharing personal or financial information online.

Finally, the Council reported that cybersecurity continues to be a major challenge amid rapid technological advancement. These preventive measures support ongoing government efforts to address digital risks and enhance user safety.

The Cyber Pulse awareness campaign, launched for the second consecutive year by the Cyber Security Council across social media platforms, supports the UAE’s efforts to build a secure cyberspace. The campaign aims to promote cybersecurity culture, raise digital awareness among individuals and families, and strengthen Cyber Security practices to protect the privacy and safety of citizens and residents during digital transformation.

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