UAE Cybersecurity Council warns of rising risks from open Wi-Fi

Dubai: The UAE Cybersecurity Council has warned of the growing dangers of unsecured public Wi-Fi networks after revealing that more than 12,000 breaches have been recorded nationwide since the start of 2025.

These incidents account for nearly 35 per cent of all cyberattacks reported in the UAE this year, underlining how hackers are increasingly exploiting open networks in cafes, airports and malls to steal passwords, banking details and other sensitive data.

The Council cautioned that public Wi-Fi users are particularly vulnerable to “man-in-the-middle” attacks, in which cybercriminals intercept communications, redirect users to fake websites, record calls or secretly install spyware on devices.

Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, said the country is intensifying its efforts to protect users in line with its national strategy. “The UAE is working tirelessly to build a safe digital space that shields users from rising cyber risks and strengthens trust in our digital ecosystem,” he said.

The Council advised users to take three key precautions: use a reliable VPN to encrypt connections, activate safe-browsing features to block suspicious sites, and avoid accessing sensitive accounts such as banking or email when connected to public Wi-Fi.

It stressed that VPNs not only ensure privacy but also serve as an essential safeguard for digital identity. Above all, the Council noted, awareness remains the first line of defence, warning that many users underestimate the risks of free internet access in public spaces.