Leading telecom operator du has joined forces with UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) and Al Ameen Service to ensure the continued online security and freedom of emirati citizens with the newly cyber blackmail awareness campaign.

As an internet service provider, du aims to educate users about persons who attempt to harm the reputation of others by violating their privacy by using illegally obtained information and images for financial gain, said a statement.

Dubai Police registered 73 offences of cyber extortion last year, as well as 212 initial complaints. The numbers rose from 59 registered offences and 80 initial complaints in 2013.

Du will support the campaign by urging caution while sharing data and photographs online, reaching out to young people, teachers as well as parents.

In addition, the telecom provider will explain how email and social media accounts can be secured, and provide solutions for data loss.

Ibrahim Al Mallouhi, vice president, Security Operations, du, said: “This latest collaboration with the TRA and Al Ameen Service reaffirms du’s commitment to the UAE, as we work together towards building the Dubai Smart City.

“Online security continues to be a significant aspect of telecommunications, and the onus of responsibility is shifting onto individuals with respect to the information they choose to share online, and through what means.

“In line with du’s Be Safe campaign, launched last year, it is vital to ensure the complete cyber security of our customers by educating them about their personal responsibility for internet security, in addition to providing the best-in-breed security services.”

With the objective of educating customers about the safety and awareness of their digital environment, du will conduct monthly awareness campaigns on several cyber security issues, under the umbrella ‘Be Safe’.

Additionally, du has invested in the latest technologies to secure and protect consumers by adapting best practices as per global security standards, and was awarded ISO27001 information security management systems and ISO22301 business continuity management systems certifications.

Du’s latest awareness initiative, under the umbrella of its ‘Be Safe’ campaign, aims to create more awareness about online security. - TradeArabia News Service