Experts in cybersecurity and information technology have affirmed that the widespread use of various email phishing methods increases the vulnerability of Bahraini institutions to significant security threats.
Furthermore, they emphasised that the lack of preventive measures and awareness when using email exposes individuals, companies, and institutions to potential hacking incidents resulting in financial and informational loss, as well as internet-based extortion.
These insights were shared during a panel discussion titled "Beyond the Basics: Maximising Email Security," hosted by NGN, a leading Bahrain IT and IoT integration and Managed Cyber Security firm, within its cybersecurity majlis activities.
The event featured Ali Al Emadi, Senior Manager, IT governance and Ahli United Bank, Mohamed AlSaeed, Head, Information Security at National Bureau for Revenue and Alaa Al-Bahrani, a cybersecurity expert, moderated the event.
Major entry point
Speakers highlighted that email remains the predominant form of communication online, particularly in business contexts, yet it also serves as a major entry point for malware on insecure networks. They emphasised that over 90% of cyberattacks originate from malicious email messages, underscoring the critical need for companies to enhance email security measures significantly.
The speakers also addressed key technical challenges faced by commercial enterprises that expose them to email hacking and emphasised essential protective protocols. These protocols include creating robust passwords, implementing two-factor authentication, training employees on safe handling of email attachments, and utilising email encryption. These measures are crucial to ensuring the utmost protection for all managed accounts against potential cyber threats.
Yaqoob Al Awadhi, CEO of NGN, emphasised the significance of raising awareness among Bahraini companies and institutions regarding email security protection strategies, and highlighted that inadequate email security measures can lead to the unauthorised disclosure of sensitive information such as financial statements, employee details, and customer data, resulting in significant financial losses, erosion of market share, and exposure to legal penalties and reputational damage.
Al Awadhi said: "Phishing campaigns continue to pose substantial threats to institutions and companies in Bahrain and the world. Email serves as a repository of highly valuable information and data, making safeguarding email communications an essential necessity to prevent breaches and theft of sensitive information. It is from this perspective that we organised this event, aiming to raise awareness about key solutions and tactics essential for enhancing email protection."--TradeArabia News Service
