Ashraf Koheil

Geopolitical tensions often extend into the digital domain. During periods of uncertainty, cybercriminal and state-aligned actors tend to increase activity, particularly through phishing campaigns, fraud schemes, and attempts to exploit exposed digital infrastructure.

Key sectors such as energy, government, and telecommunications are often among the most targeted, which makes proactive and integrated cybersecurity measures essential. For businesses, this means cybersecurity becomes even more critical to maintaining operational continuity and trust, especially as organisations rely heavily on interconnected digital services and global supply chains.

Across the Middle East, we are seeing strong signs of resilience. Governments and enterprises have significantly strengthened their cybersecurity posture in recent years, investing in threat intelligence, incident response capabilities, and stronger collaboration frameworks.

At the same time, the use of AI by threat actors is evolving, particularly in areas such as reconnaissance and social engineering. This makes education, awareness, and clear communication increasingly important. While companies are preparing for continued uncertainty, they are also becoming more proactive in managing digital risks.

One positive outcome is the growing recognition that cybersecurity is not just a technical requirement but a strategic priority. Organisations are increasingly investing in capabilities such as investigation and digital forensics to better understand and respond to threats beyond initial indicators. The current environment is encouraging deeper collaboration between governments, businesses, and cybersecurity experts, helping organisations build stronger resilience and trust in the digital economy.