Over 12,000 Wi-Fi breaches were recorded by the UAE’s Cyber Security Council since the beginning of 2025.
The council said that this figure represents around 35% of the total cyberattacks the country has experienced in total. It added that hackers target users through open, free Wi-Fi networks and steal passwords, banking details, and personal information.
The council explained that many users are unaware of the extent of the threats that can arise from connecting to free Wi-Fi networks, especially in public places such as cafes, airports, and shopping malls. While these networks may seem convenient in terms of speed and cost, they are often inadequately secured, making them an open arena for fraud and cyberattacks.
Users of open internet networks may be exposed to numerous risks, including what are known as “man-in-the-middle” attacks, in which hackers and cybercriminals can read transmitted data, record calls, redirect users to fake websites, and even intercept phone calls, in addition to installing malicious or spyware on users’ devices without their knowledge.
The Cyber Security Council has outlined three key steps every user should follow to stay safe while browsing the internet on public networks:
- Using a trusted VPN application that encrypts the user’s digital connection, making it difficult for any unauthorized party to intercept data
- Activating the “Safe Browsing” feature in the browser to ensure you don’t access suspicious websites
- Avoiding logging into sensitive accounts, such as bank accounts or personal email, when using open Wi-Fi networks
In a statement to WAM, Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Government Cybersecurity Council, said that the UAE is continuing its efforts to build a secure cyberspace that protects users from growing digital risks and keeps pace with rapid technological developments. This is part of a comprehensive national vision to enhance confidence in the country’s digital ecosystem, promote a culture of cybersecurity, and raise awareness of the importance of safe browsing.
The council emphasised that using a reliable VPN application not only ensures privacy, but is also an effective tool for protecting digital identity in an interconnected world vulnerable to frequent breaches. It noted the need for well-thought-out preventative measures and emphasized that awareness represents the first line of defense against cybercrime.
The Cyber Security Council has launched a weekly awareness campaign as part of the Cyber Pulse initiative. The second week of the campaign this year is themed “Free Wi-Fi may reveal your personal data.” The campaign aims to raise awareness about ways to protect personal data, the risks of using free Wi-Fi networks, and provide guidance on how to counter various cyber threats. The campaign targets both individuals and institutions to increase cyber awareness and promote resilience and cyber culture. Khaleej Times