UAE Reports Over 12,000 Wi-Fi Network Breaches in 2025
Recent disclosures from the UAE’s Cyber Security Council reveal a staggering number of over 12,000 cybersecurity breaches occurring across Wi-Fi networks since the beginning of 2025. This figure accounts for approximately 35 percent of all reported cyberattacks within the country this year, highlighting an alarming trend characterized by the exploitation of unsecured and untrusted networks.
Cybersecurity officials indicate that hackers are increasingly targeting public and residential Wi-Fi connections to penetrate user systems. The vulnerabilities lie primarily with individuals who unwittingly connect to compromised networks, thereby exposing themselves to risks such as data theft, financial fraud, and the infiltration of malicious spyware.
One of the most pressing threats highlighted by cybersecurity experts is the prevalence of “man-in-the-middle” (MITM) attacks. These attacks allow adversaries to intercept and monitor data as it travels between users and online platforms, enabling them to harvest sensitive information, steal login credentials, and redirect users to fraudulent sites. Moreover, the installation of spyware and malicious software on personal devices can occur covertly, leading to long-term vulnerabilities that can compromise users’ personal and financial security.
Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cyber Security Council, emphasized the need for a national push to fortify cyberspace. As part of this initiative, the council aims to enhance trust in digital systems while educating users about safe online practices. He articulated a broader vision of collective action to address these emerging cyber threats.
To mitigate risks, the Cyber Security Council has advised users to adopt more robust online practices. Firstly, the use of trusted VPN applications can significantly encrypt internet connections, creating a secure digital environment. Additionally, activating built-in “safe browsing” features in web browsers can help to filter out suspicious websites, reducing exposure to malicious content. Finally, users are cautioned against accessing sensitive accounts, including banking and email services, while connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
The increasing sophistication of cybercriminals is underscored by the variety of tactics they employ, including those defined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Relevant adversary techniques may include initial access through compromised networks, persistence via malware installation, and privilege escalation to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Authorities stress the importance of public awareness and education as pivotal elements in reducing the scale and impact of these cyber incidents. The government remains committed to implementing enhanced protective measures and improving the overall digital infrastructure while collaborating with international partners to confront these ongoing challenges in cybersecurity.
This heightened landscape of cyber threats serves as a reminder for business owners and tech-savvy professionals to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their digital assets against potential breaches and vulnerabilities.
