The UAE’s Telecommunications and Regulatory Authority (TRA), represented by the Computer Emergency Response Team (aeCERT), and General Holding Corporation (Senaat), have signed an agreement to identify areas of joint cooperation in the field of information and cyber security.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, in order to provide organizations across different sectors in the UAE, with warnings about cyber-attacks, viruses and hacking, and offering them with assistance in handling cyber security issues.

Mohammed Gheyath, executive director Information Security Regulatory Affairs in TRA, said: “The TRA has rich experience in the field of information security and is well-equipped to combat piracy and cyber-attacks. We have gained this know-how after years of hard work and have spared no effort to train the human capital and offer them, especially Emiratis, a platform to grow and perform. This MoU with Senaat is a testament of our commitment to support federal and government entities and private sector, to implement best practices in cyber security.”

Gheyath stressed that the rapid growth and use of the internet have given rise to multiple risks and threats with regard to information security, which need attention and preventive measures to reduce the impact and damage.

“Cyber-attacks have now become more vigorous and frequent, and to handle these attacks and mitigate risks, we work round-the-clock. Time and again we have proven our ability to tackle such crises with a clear aim of positioning UAE as a cyber-attacks free country.” he added.

Mahmood Al Hameli, senior vice president - Business Support, Senaat, said: “The UAE is witnessing a digital revolution. Over the last decade, there has been a tremendous increase in cross-border data connecting the UAE with the rest of the world. Naturally, cyber-security has become a cause of importance for the public and private sectors alike.

“With data protection as one of our key priorities, Senaat is pleased to partner with Telecommunications Regulatory Authority to maximize the benefits of digital development and reduce the risks associated with it. This agreement is aligned with the strategic direction of Senaat as we place high importance on maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of data, and continue to create an environment conducive to innovation through the best practices that improve efficiency and quality in all areas of work, which it’s in line with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030.”

As per the MoU, the (aeCERT) team will respond by providing consultation and guidance about cyber threats and assist the affiliates in reaching better results and protecting their systems from cyber-attacks. The team will be the point of contact for the authorities and will maintain database with details of international and local aeCERT teams.

The team will also search and analyze risks and assess the organizations as well as search and analyze risks and assess the organizations to provide them with the latest digital technologies in addition to offering them services to lessen related risks. This service is purposely designed to provide consultation and information for quality assurance. – TradeArabia News Service