UAE Cybersecurity Council Issues Alert on Rising Cyber Manipulation and Social Engineering Scams

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has raised a fresh concern over the growing sophistication of cyber manipulation and social engineering scams. Thus, the authority has warned residents to stay alert in the digital space. 

The council explained that fraudsters now use advanced psychological methods to trap people into revealing sensitive data. In addition, they now gather basic personal information, develop interactions online, and express emotions. Thus, scammers create a false sense of trust before launching an attack. 

Scammers Act Like Professional Actors in Cyber Manipulation and Social Engineering Scams

As per the council, cybercriminals are not random hackers but ‘professional actors’ skilled in persuasion and manipulation. In addition, they study personalities, identify vulnerabilities, and then create cases that make victims lower their guard. 

After gaining trust, these scammers move instantly to steal financial details, passwords, or confidential information. The bulletin stressed, “Be smarter than them. Your awareness is your first line of defense.”

Key Cybersecurity Guidelines for UAE Residents

The council has shared important recommendations to help people support their online safety. So, take a look at the top tips shared by the council:

• Verify messages and requests before sharing any personal or financial details.
• Avoid oversharing online, especially personal data and location on social media.
• Disable location-sharing features and carefully review friend requests or followers.
• Use strong authentication methods, including PIN codes, biometric locks, and frequent software updates.
• Report suspicious activity immediately to the relevant authorities.

The council highlighted that phishing schemes often exploit fear, urgency, or misplaced trust. Therefore, it is important for users to stop and think before responding. 

Protecting Your Digital Footprint

Every online login and digital interaction leaves behind a trace. Thus, it forms part of a digital footprint of the person. Therefore, the council has requested residents to accept a cautious approach when sharing data online. In addition, the authority has also requested you to use advanced security tools to protect your devices. 

The following statistics will help you determine why protecting yourself from cybersecurity threats is important:

• 47% of cyber fraud victims globally fall for scams
• Only 4% manage to recover their financial losses.

The data mentioned above highlights the importance of prevention over cure.  Moreover, the UAE Cybersecurity Council will continuously repeat its call for a stronger public awareness because cyber manipulation tactics are growing. 

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