Cyberattacks are hitting systems every 39 seconds, according to the UAE Cybersecurity Council, as authorities warn that the pace, scale, and sophistication of digital threats are accelerating rapidly, driven largely by artificial intelligence and automation.
The council said both individuals and organisations are facing heightened risk, with cybercriminals increasingly using automated tools to scan for vulnerabilities, launch phishing campaigns, and exploit weak security systems at unprecedented speed. Globally, cybercrime costs are projected to surge further in 2026, placing growing pressure on governments, businesses, and consumers alike.
Officials cautioned that the rise in attacks is not limited to large corporations or critical infrastructure. Every day, users are increasingly targeted through email scams, fake websites, malicious links, and compromised mobile applications. AI-powered tools allow attackers to personalise scams, mimic trusted brands, and bypass traditional security filters more easily than before.
In the UAE, authorities say digital transformation and high internet penetration make cybersecurity awareness especially critical. As more services move online – from banking and healthcare to government platforms – the potential impact of breaches grows, affecting personal data, financial security, and public trust.
The Cybersecurity Council urged organisations to strengthen their defences by regularly updating systems, applying security patches, using multi-factor authentication, and training employees to recognise suspicious activity. For individuals, simple steps such as using strong, unique passwords, avoiding unknown links, and verifying sources before sharing information can significantly reduce risk.
Officials also highlighted the importance of reporting cyber incidents promptly, noting that early detection can limit damage and help authorities identify emerging threat patterns. Collaboration between the public and private sectors remains a key pillar of the UAE’s national cybersecurity strategy.
As cybercrime becomes faster and more automated, experts warn that complacency is no longer an option. The council’s message is clear: staying digitally aware is no longer just a technical concern, but a daily necessity.
With attacks occurring every few seconds, the UAE’s warning serves as a reminder that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility – one that requires vigilance from governments, organisations, and individuals alike.
