According to data from the Acronis Threat Research Unit, malware detections will soar by 65.3% and URL-based threats by 36.9% in 2024, respectively, posing unprecedented challenges to the UAE’s cybersecurity landscape.
Even though the number of malware detections has slightly decreased, there is still a high level of potential risk, indicating that many organisations may still be at risk.
Driven by this growing need for all-encompassing cybersecurity and data protection solutions, Acronis, a top cyber protection company, saw a 68% increase in revenue in the region year over year.
“The low number of ransomware incidents reported could just be the tip of the iceberg; many cases go unpublished,” warned Ziad Nasr, General Manager of Acronis Middle East, highlighting the serious implications for businesses across the region, as reported by Zawya.
Acronis and Etisalat (e& enterprise) have partnered to launch a cutting-edge Cyber Cloud Data Centre in Abu Dhabi in Q2 2024 as a proactive response to these growing threats. Using cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies, this state-of-the-art facility provides scalable solutions that improve data security and compliance to enterprise IT departments and Managed Service Providers (MSPs).
“Our data centre expansion isn’t just about growth—it’s about empowering our customers with faster, more secure solutions tailored to regional markets,” Nasr stated.
Acronis’s reach and service delivery capabilities have been greatly expanded by its growth and strategic partnerships with 160 MSPs in the area. To fulfil the changing demands of businesses, Acronis is dedicated to making additional investments in its products as the UAE government pushes for digital transformation.
As the pace of digital transformation quickens, the company is investing in the creation of customised solutions that target particular vulnerabilities faced by businesses in the United Arab Emirates.
It is anticipated that by concentrating on adaptable cybersecurity tactics, organisations will be better equipped to defend themselves against new dangers like advanced persistent threats (APTs) and vulnerabilities brought about by Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Companies must change as cybercriminals do, and it will be expected of the leaders in cyber protection to give them the resources and assistance they need to successfully reduce risks.
As the UAE establishes itself as a major hub for international finance, Acronis predicts an increase in sophisticated and complex cyberattacks in 2025, primarily aimed at vital infrastructure and the financial industry. Cybercriminals will concentrate on upsetting industrial systems and taking advantage of smart city technologies, which will lead to an increase in data breaches, ransomware attacks, and threats to the energy, oil, and gas sectors.