Following the successful launch of the first e-learning module of the 2nd Quarter of the National Security Awareness e-learning Campaign by the UAE National Computer Emergency Response Team (aeCERT) of the UAE Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), the aeCERT launched the second e-learning module for their second quarter around the theme of “Internet Threats” entitled: “Instant Messaging Security.” The theme for this quarter consists of three essential security awareness e-learning modules titled: E-mail Security (launched last month), Instant Messaging Security (launched in the current month), and Web Browser Security (will be launched early next month).
In this respect, Eng. Fatma Bazargan, Manager Research and Analysis at the aeCERT, stated: “The 2nd module will help the nation leverage the benefits of modern technology, and avoid the security risks involved in sharing personal or work related information through Instant Messaging Software Packages, which are freely available on the Internet, and have various features that enable internet users to transfer and share files and programs easily through peer-to-peer networks, and have voice and video chats with others across the Internet.”
“The growth and spread of Instant Messaging applications for both legitimate Business and personal use have brought about numerous security risks to both organizations and consumers alike. Information theft and data leakage are all easily facilitated via the use of uncontrolled Instant Messaging, and also through a lack of general awareness regarding the risks and safeguards. Identity theft, hacking attacks and cyber-bullying are all made easier and relatively anonymous via the incorrect usage of Instant Messaging applications,” she added.
In his turn, Mr. Suleman Bakhsh, Senior Compliance & Research Analyst at the aeCERT, said: “Like many software programs, Instant Messaging is vulnerable. This vulnerability can enable hackers and malicious users to obtain e-mail addresses and confidential information of individuals and organizations. Instant Messaging in many ways is a bigger risk as it provides an uncontrolled ‘bypass’ of traditional security controls enabling the uncontrolled and unverified exchange of information and data. So, it is extremely important for users to keep Instant Messaging Software Programs up-to-date, install Antivirus Programs on their computers at all times, change the user name and password continuously, and never download or receive programs sent by unknown persons for fear of viruses that work to destroy computers; and more importantly, educate yourself and your colleagues, peers and family about the potential dangers and risks.”
In the final analysis, an extensive E-learning Modules Program is now available free of charge to all UAE residents, in both Arabic and English, catering for business, general and other technology users, such as students, via the aeCERT official site: www.aecert.ae/security.html. All modules are supported with related collateral such as screen savers and reminder cards.
