Cybersecurity Day at GITEX GLOBAL 2024: Navigating the Future of Digital Safety
DUBAI, UAE, Oct. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As GITEX GLOBAL 2024 reaches its midpoint, the spotlight shines brightly on "Cybersecurity Day," a pivotal event that underscores the pressing challenges, evolving threats, and emerging opportunities within the global tech community. This year’s edition, taking place from October 14 to 18 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), marks the 44th iteration of the world’s largest and most acclaimed tech event, attracting over 200,000 tech executives, 6,500 exhibitors, and 1,800 startups from more than 180 countries.
The Urgency of Cybersecurity
With the global cost of cybercrime projected to soar to an astonishing $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more pronounced. GITEX GLOBAL serves as a critical platform for industry leaders, including Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), Chief Information Officers (CIOs), and Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) leaders, to converge and strategize on establishing a formidable line of defense against cyber threats.
On Cybersecurity Day, a series of keynote speeches, fireside chats, and expert panels provided invaluable insights into the current and future cybersecurity landscape. The discussions highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in how organizations approach digital safety, emphasizing collaboration and innovation as key components in combating cybercrime.
AI: A Gamechanger in Cybersecurity
One of the standout moments of the day came from H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity for the UAE Government. He articulated the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing cybersecurity measures. "Cyber awareness is crucial – and AI is changing the game," he stated. Dr. Al Kuwaiti revealed that the UAE has successfully thwarted millions of cyber threats this year, thanks in large part to AI-driven early threat detection systems.
The finance sector, in particular, has seen a staggering 40% increase in AI-driven fraud in 2024, prompting urgent discussions on safeguarding financial institutions. One of the must-attend sessions, "AI-Driven Digital Fraud: Safeguarding the Finance Industry’s Future," explored how emerging technologies can be leveraged to combat these evolving threats.
Todd Conklin, Chief AI Officer & Deputy Assistant Secretary for Cybersecurity & Critical Infrastructure Protection at the US Department of the Treasury, echoed similar sentiments. He shared that the US Treasury has utilized AI models to reduce fraud by nearly $600 million in just six months, underscoring the critical role of AI in the counter-fraud landscape.
A Hub for Innovation and Collaboration
GITEX GLOBAL 2024 is not just a showcase of technology; it is a vibrant hub for innovation and collaboration. With 88% of exhibiting startups making their debut at this year’s event, the atmosphere is charged with potential. Over 230 new partnerships have already been finalized, demonstrating GITEX’s role as a catalyst for global cooperation.
Dr. Aloysius Cheang, Chief Security Officer for the Middle East & Central Asia at Huawei, highlighted the alarming rate of cyber attacks, stating that Huawei faces an average of 12 billion attacks daily. He emphasized the necessity for organizations to adopt a security-first approach, fostering a culture of cybersecurity to protect digital assets effectively.
Cybersecurity firms like Kaspersky and Fortinet showcased their cutting-edge solutions, including Kaspersky’s pioneering Cyber Immunity approach and Fortinet’s comprehensive cybersecurity platform. These innovations are crucial as organizations navigate the increasingly complex digital landscape.
Insights from the Cyber Underworld
The GITEX Cyber Valley, this year’s most anticipated cybersecurity exhibition, featured a range of engaging sessions. One notable highlight was Brett Johnson, once dubbed America’s Most Wanted, who shared his journey from cybercriminal to cybercrime expert. His session, "Scamming the Scammer: Inside the Mind of a Cybercriminal," provided attendees with a rare glimpse into the virtual underworld.
Additionally, the Dark Stage hosted live demonstrations by ethical hackers, showcasing AI-powered hacks and offering insights into the lucrative world of hacking. Santiago Lopez, the first hacker to earn a million dollars, inspired attendees during his session, "Face to Face with the #1 Million Dollar Hacker: Who Wants to Be a Hacking Millionaire?"
Looking Ahead: What’s Next at GITEX GLOBAL 2024?
As GITEX GLOBAL 2024 continues, the focus will shift to "Data Centres Universe," where thought leaders will discuss the future of data management and infrastructure. The day’s sessions will delve into the latest data technologies and sustainable energy solutions, emphasizing the crucial role of data centers in supporting the exponential growth of digital services.
Other highlights include the "Future Mobility" segment, which will explore the evolving paradigms of the global auto tech industry, alongside the World Future Economy Digital Leaders Summit and Global DevSlam.
For more information on GITEX GLOBAL, visit www.gitex.com.
Conclusion
GITEX GLOBAL 2024 is not just a tech event; it is a vital gathering of minds dedicated to shaping the future of technology and cybersecurity. As the event progresses, the insights and innovations shared will undoubtedly pave the way for a more secure digital landscape, fostering collaboration and resilience in the face of ever-evolving cyber threats.