UAE warns of free public Wi-Fi risks with over 12,000 breaches recorded in 2025

Image for illustration

The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) has warned of the serious risks posed by using unsecured, free public Wi-Fi networks, revealing that more than 12,000 breaches have been recorded through such networks since the beginning of the year.

The Council said this accounted for nearly 35 per cent of the total cyberattacks reported in the UAE, with hackers stealing passwords, banking details and other personal information.

The authority urged the public to exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi networks, such as avoiding sensitive transactions, enabling multi-factor authentication and using trusted security tools.

Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government at UAE Cyber Security Council, said that while these networks seem convenient in terms of speed and cost, they are often not sufficiently secured, making them an open arena for fraud and electronic hacking activities.

Three main safety steps to remember while using public Wi-Fi

  • ‏Using a reliable VPN application that encrypts the user's digital connection, making it difficult for any unauthorised party to intercept data
  • ‏Activate the "Safe Browsing" feature to ensure that suspicious websites are not accessed
  • ‏Avoid logging into sensitive accounts, such as banking accounts or personal email, when using open Wi-Fi

More from Local

Coming Up on Dubai Eye

  • The Music Mix

    7:00pm - 11:00pm

    Enjoy your favourite music back to back commercial free, tune in to the Music Mix everyday from 1 until 2 for the music you love and the news updates you need

  • The Music Mix

    11:00pm - 6:00am

    Enjoy your favourite music back to back commercial free, tune in to the Music Mix everyday from 1 until 2 for the music you love and the news updates you need

BUSINESS BREAKFAST LATEST

On Dubai Eye

  • Is There Sufficient House Supply In UAE

    Dubai’s current population is more than double compared to almost twenty years ago, which now stands at 3.7 million. Lots of families are also moving to the UAE now. So what does it mean for the property market?

  • Noon's First Female Delivery Driver

    Glory Ehirim Nkiruka is Noon’s first ever female delivery driver. In her first ever interview, she explained why she loves her job, despite the heat!