GITEX 2021: Kaspersky to spotlight ‘Expert Framework’ solutions

Global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky is showcasing its complete suite of products and services that fall within its ‘Expert Framework’.

According to the company, the framework is built to tailor to the technical expertise of every company and starts with the Security Foundations, enabling Kaspersky solutions can block the maximum possible number of threats automatically.

Kaspersky will also highlight its Advanced Defence offerings, focusing on advanced detection and fast response to those complex threats missed by preventive protection. Finally, it will also spotlight its Integrated Cybersecurity Approach, for clients that are ready for APT-level attacks, those with a high level of expertise, advanced threat intelligence capabilities and continuous threat hunting.

We caught up with Amir Kanaan, Managing Director at Kaspersky, to discuss the importance of the global tech show and the latest trends impacting the cybersecurity space.

Why are tech shows such as GITEX important despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?

Tech shows like GITEX are important despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic because it provides the tech industry with the opportunity to showcase its latest advancements in technology. It also provides vendors and customers alike with the chance to interact and share ideas about the future of technology. This year’s edition of the GITEX Technology Week is one of the most anticipated technology events of the year as it is held in conjunction with the equally awaited Expo 2020.

In addition to showcasing our latest offerings, our experts will also be present at GITEX to aid organisations with building their Security Operations Center (SOC) – in order to fight modern global cyber threats, today’s organisations need a SOC that is equipped with the technologies, security intelligence and knowledge that empower it to adapt to ongoing challenges in a changing threat environment.

What have been the biggest trends impacting the cybersecurity landscape over the last 12 months?

One emerging trend that has become quite popular that people need to be aware of especially those who are working remotely is an increase in attacks on Remote Desktop Protocols (RDPs). This is basically a rise in attacks on remote access software used by employees since they need access from their homes. If such attacks are successful, criminals can have unauthorised access to sensitive information or intellectual properties and companies can find themselves in difficult scenarios. The United Arab Emirates is no stranger to RDP attacks. Earlier this year, Kaspersky reported that the United Arab Emirates saw more than 15.8 million brute force attacks in 2020, on Remote Desktop Protocols (RDPs). According to Kaspersky’s telemetry, when the UAE announced restrictions in March 2020, the total number of brute force attacks against RDP jumped from 467,115 in February 2020 to 1.3 million in March 2020 —a significant increase of 193%.

In addition to RDP’s, Kaspersky researchers have detected phishing emails as well. The cybercriminals send a spam email which appears to be from the World Health Organisation (WHO). The email includes a link and once the user clicks on the link they are redirected to a phishing website and prompted to share personal information, which ends up in the hands of cybercriminals.

Another trend that we are seeing are increases in Industrial Cybersecurity (ICS) attacks. According to our data, ICS computers in UAE and Saudi Arabia and other countries tend to be more open to cyber threats than the average ICS computers worldwide, especially since the second half (H2) of 2020.

We have seen a 4% increase in ICS attacks in the United Arab Emirates during the first half of 2021 when compared to the same period last year. Saudi Arabia also saw a slight increase in attacks during the same period.

As businesses continue to embrace hybrid models, why do they need to prioritise cybersecurity?

As businesses continue to embrace hybrid models they need to be protected. The remote workforce in today’s age is exposed to a wide range of new cyber threats. Adopting a cybersecurity hybrid model that takes into consideration the security issues that comes with remote working is essential for businesses to stay safe to stay one step ahead of evolving cyber threats. In order to remain competitive, it is important that organisations take into consideration a robust cybersecurity solution to help them stay safe and one step ahead of competitors.

Continue the cybersecurity conversation at GITEX Global 2021, register here.