Discovery of 30,000 New Vulnerabilities Worldwide in the Past Year
The UAE Cybersecurity Council has urged users of software and digital systems in the country to update their essential devices, including smartphones, laptops, web browsers, routers, and smart home gadgets. It highlighted that these electronic devices are particularly vulnerable to attacks from hackers and scammers, especially when connected to open networks.
Statistics reveal that 70% of outdated systems face a significantly higher risk of cyberattacks if not regularly updated.
In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the council explained that cyber threats are constantly evolving, making outdated systems ideal targets for malware, data theft, and network breaches. This emphasizes the importance of enabling automatic updates on various digital devices to ensure ongoing protection and to address newly discovered security vulnerabilities.
Warnings
The council warned that failing to update these devices exposes users to numerous potential risks, including malware, sensitive data theft, and internal network breaches.
Experts recommend a series of simple yet effective steps to mitigate these risks, such as activating automatic updates, reviewing update settings across all devices, maintaining continuous protection, regularly confirming updates are installed, checking privacy settings, and monitoring for unusual activity on devices.
The council affirmed that the best way to enhance cybersecurity is by consistently updating software, as most attacks exploit previously identified vulnerabilities that could have been avoided with a straightforward update. These updates should be regarded not merely as technical improvements but as digital shields safeguarding systems against threats.
Efforts
The UAE continues its ongoing initiatives to create a secure cyberspace that protects users from growing digital risks while keeping pace with rapid technological advancements. This aligns with a comprehensive national vision aimed at fostering trust in the digital ecosystem and promoting a culture of cybersecurity while raising awareness about safe browsing practices.
It is noteworthy that the Cybersecurity Council has launched a weekly awareness campaign as part of the “Cyber Pulse” initiative. The third week of this year’s campaign is themed “Neglecting Updates Means Greater Cyber Risks / The Numbers Warn,” focusing on educating the public about the significance of updating digital programs and systems, and providing guidance on addressing various cyber threats.
The campaign targets both individuals and organizations to increase cybersecurity awareness and enhance resilience and cyber literacy.
Neglecting regular updates for software and digital systems poses a significant risk to information security, with reports indicating that over 30,000 new vulnerabilities were identified globally in 2024, alongside a rise in security breaches and vulnerabilities worldwide.