CSC calls for sharing files online in a secure manner

Confirmed that 25% of publicly accessible files contain sensitive personal data 

As part of the weekly awareness campaign of the "Cyber Pulse" initiative launched by the Cybersecurity Council (CSC), the Council emphasized in its weekly message on the importance of adhering to safe digital practices in cyberspace to effectively address potential risks and threats. It also stressed the necessity of sharing files online in a secure manner to avoid any potential cyber risks.

CSC highlighted that prioritizing encryption and securing accounts and files across cyberspace are fundamental cybersecurity habits that significantly help individuals mitigate the consequences of the growing cyber and digital threats. It noted that applying proper protection through encryption for files transmitted over the internet safeguards them against unauthorized access and contributes to creating a secure cyber environment.

The Council further emphasized that, in addition to encrypting files, users must manage access permissions and continuously monitor who accesses their files. It pointed out that approximately 25% of publicly accessible files contain sensitive personal data. In this context, the Council also noted that cybercrime is rapidly evolving, driven by increasingly sophisticated and intelligent attacks. It stressed that file protection is a key component in countering such crimes and cyber threats, adding that between 68% and 77% of privately shared files are accessible to individuals beyond the intended recipients. It also underlined that cloud storage does not equate to automatic protection, making encryption essential.

the Cybersecurity Council outlined a set of measures to protect files transmitted over the internet. These include using strong passwords and changing them regularly, enabling two-factor authentication for accounts, avoiding sharing public links for sensitive files, regularly reviewing privacy settings and access permissions, deleting files or links that no longer need to be shared, securing Wi-Fi networks, and keeping devices and software continuously updated.

The Council also called for regularly reviewing application permissions, deleting old and unused accounts, encrypting email communications, and activating VPNs when connecting to Wi-Fi networks. It further emphasized the importance of backing up personal or corporate data and ensuring that databases on cloud services are properly secured. The Council affirmed that addressing these threats begins with the individual by strengthening cybersecurity awareness, stressing that many risks originate from seemingly minor actions that individuals may underestimate, yet can be avoided through simple and effective measures that ensure a safe online environment for all family members.

The "Cyber Pulse" awareness campaign, launched by the Cybersecurity Council and now in its second consecutive year across social media platforms, forms part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to build a secure cyberspace that protects users from growing digital threats while keeping pace with rapid technological advancements. This initiative aligns with a comprehensive national vision to strengthen trust in the country’s digital ecosystem, enhance cybersecurity culture, raise digital awareness among individuals and families, and promote best practices that ensure the safety and privacy of citizens and residents in an era of accelerated digital transformation.