UAE cybersecurity chief urges public vigilance against digital threats
Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti warned that cyberattacks and manipulated content can sway opinion and harm communities, urging verification, stronger systems and human-led responses.
National vigilance urged as threats diversify
Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, told delegates at the Arab Media Summit in Dubai that cyber threats now extend well beyond data breaches to affect individuals, communities and critical national sectors.
Speaking on 15 September 2026 in a session titled “When Public Opinion Becomes the Target”, he said that more than 85 per cent of cyber threats begin with an incorrect or unintended click by an average user, underlining how easily people can become entry points for wider attacks. He warned that disruptions can reach sectors including aviation, water and the wider economy.
Prevention, regulation and rapid coordination
Al Kuwaiti emphasised that awareness is the first line of defence and praised the UAE’s regulatory frameworks and governance as crucial to ensuring responsible use of technology. He said strong national systems, clear regulation and rapid coordination help the country respond effectively when incidents occur.
The Cybersecurity Council, he added, plays a direct role in countering rumours through official announcements and reliable information, helping to address misleading narratives quickly.
Advice to content creators and the public
For journalists and content creators, Al Kuwaiti urged verification through official sources and adherence to the UAE’s cultural and Islamic values. He told the audience: “Don’t be doubtful about everything, but fact-check anything you share or spread.”
The chairman cautioned that modern conflicts are increasingly decentralised, with cyberattacks, misinformation, rumours and falsified content capable of influencing public opinion and creating anxiety in communities. He cited the misuse of deepfakes, extortion, blackmail and online bullying as growing risks, noting that online abuse can be particularly damaging to young people, in some cases affecting their education or requiring rehabilitation.
Role of AI and human judgement
Al Kuwaiti said artificial intelligence remains overwhelmingly positive, estimating that more than 95 per cent of AI use is beneficial. Nevertheless, he warned that technology should support rather than replace human judgement. “We need humans to be at the centre of our response, because criminals are making use of slow responses and false information,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of cooperation with the private sector to contain cyberattacks and limit the leakage of sensitive data, and closed by urging the public to rely on official sources and remain vigilant about the information they consume and share.
Source: WAM