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Cohesity Research Highlights a Gap That Puts Businesses and Security Postures at Risk

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“While most IT and security operations (SecOps) decision-makers believe they should jointly share the responsibility for their organization’s data security strategy, many of these teams are not collaborating as effectively as possible to address growing cyber threats,” reveals new research commissioned by Cohesity, a data management service provider.

The survey also shows that of those respondents who believe collaboration is weak between IT and security, nearly half of respondents believe their organization is more exposed to cyber threats as a result — and the implications of that could have significant consequences for businesses.

The research is based on an April 2022 survey conducted by Censuswide, of more than 2,000 IT decision-makers and SecOps professionals (split nearly 50/50 between the two groups) from businesses in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia — all of whom have a role in the decision-making process for IT or security.

The survey was conducted as nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents believe the threat of ransomware in their industry has increased over the last year, with nearly half of respondents (47%) saying their organization has been the victim of a ransomware attack in the last six months.

The survey uncovered the following results globally:

  • Security should be a shared responsibility: More than four in five (81%) of respondents overall (86% of IT decision-makers and 76% of SecOps) somewhat or strongly agree that IT and SecOps should share the responsibility for their organization’s data security strategy.
  • Effective collaboration between IT and security teams is frequently not happening: Almost a third of SecOps respondents (31%) believe the collaboration is not strong with IT, with 9% of those respondents going so far as to call it “weak.” Among IT decision-makers, more than a tenth of respondents (13%), believe collaboration with SecOps is not strong. In total, nearly a quarter (22%) of IT and SecOps respondents overall believe the collaboration between the two groups is not strong.
  • The ongoing tech talent shortage is making matters worse: When asked if the talent shortage is impacting the collaboration between IT and security teams, 78% of respondents (77% of IT decision-makers and 78% of SecOps) said, yes, it is having an impact.

Brian Spanswick, chief information security officer, Cohesity, comments, “for too long, many security teams focused primarily on preventing cyber attacks, while IT teams have focused on data protection, including backup and recovery. A complete data security strategy must bring these two worlds together — but in many cases, they remain separate and this lack of collaboration creates significant business risks and can put companies at the mercy of bad actors.”

Hospitality

Latest Stat and Trends for Restaurants’ Loyalty Programs in the UAE and KSA

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Deliverect

By Naji Haddad, VP – EMEA at Deliverect

In the competitive restaurant landscape of the UAE & KSA, leveraging loyalty programs can significantly boost customer spending, enhance retention, and drive growth. This article explores key strategies and the latest trends in loyalty programs tailored for the customers in the two countries.

The importance of Loyalty Programs

As the restaurant market flourishes, loyalty programs have become essential for building a dedicated customer base. These programs reward guests for returning and staying engaged with your brand, ultimately generating more revenue. The evolution from simple analog rewards to sophisticated, tech-driven systems mirrors the rapid development in consumer expectations in this region.

Historically, loyalty programs were basic, today they use technology and data analytics to deliver personalized and engaging experiences. In the restaurant industry, common loyalty program features include point-based systems, discounts, free items, and exclusive offers tailored to local tastes.

For instance, many popular UAE restaurants and cafes, like Açaí Spot’s loyalty program, enhance the dining experience by fostering community and rewarding repeat visits. Customers appreciate the straightforward 10% cash back on all purchases, which encourages regular patronage and makes them feel valued.

Additionally, loyalty members receive early access to new menu items, creating excitement around fresh offerings. To promote the program, the brand leverages in-store promotions, social media, and staff education to highlight its benefits effectively.

Recent research indicates that the loyalty market in Saudi Arabia has experienced a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6% from 2019 to 2023. Looking ahead, the market is poised for continued expansion, with a projected CAGR of 8.5% from 2024 to 2028. This growth is expected to elevate the market’s value from approximately US$1.04 billion in 2023 to an impressive US$1.59 billion by 2028.

  1. Key Statistics on Restaurant Loyalty Programs

Adoption Rates

The popularity of loyalty programs has surged in the region over the past decade, especially post-pandemic, as restaurants seek ways to re-engage with their customer base and drive sales. Recent trends show that restaurants in both countries are increasingly recognizing the advantages of these programs for customer retention and repeat business, which is part of a broader trend towards customer-centricity.

Customer Participation

Participation rates in loyalty programs are high across demographics in the region, especially among millennials.  In 2021 alone, 54.7% of millennials were active in restaurant loyalty programs, making them the largest user group. Millennials (24-39) are known for being digitally savvy and wanting personalized experiences, and they see huge value in their tailored rewards and offers. According to YouGov data, 27% of UAE consumers are loyalty program enthusiasts.

Impact on Revenue

Data shows that with each monetary transaction, users maximize their point earnings. Additionally, loyalty programs have a measurable impact on restaurant revenue. 

On average, loyalty program members generate 12-18% more incremental revenue growth annually than non-members. These stats prove these programs work not only to attract and retain key customer segments but can also increase the amount of dollars spent on your business’s menu items. 

These financial benefits show the importance of effective loyalty programs to drive growth and stay competitive in the restaurant industry. However, it is essential to explore the emerging trends shaping restaurant loyalty programs today to understand how these programs continue to evolve and adapt and how restaurants can fully take advantage of their benefits.

  • Trends Shaping Restaurant Loyalty Programs

Personalization and Customization 

Personalization is a game-changer in the restaurant industry. Using data analytics, restaurants in the UAE can track customer behavior and preferences to offer targeted rewards.

For example: Açaí Spot’s loyalty program leverages customer data to tailor rewards and promotions, ensuring they resonate with individual preferences.

Personalized reward programs and offers are key to attracting and keeping customers. This curated approach enhances the customer experience, builds a stronger emotional connection with the brand and attracts repeat business and loyalty.

Technology Integration

Technology integration has revolutionized customer engagement with loyalty programs. The rise of mobile apps and digital platforms has simplified access and interaction, empowering customers to effortlessly track their rewards and receive tailored offers. These platforms facilitate a more convenient and streamlined connection with brands, enhancing the overall experience. Restaurants in both countries are increasingly embracing personalized, technology-driven solutions while exploring cashback options to deepen customer engagement.

The introduction of innovative programs by leading players underscores a competitive landscape dedicated to delivering exceptional value to consumers.

However, a seamless experience across multiple channels is also key to modern loyalty programs. Restaurants are now focusing on integrating online, mobile, and in-store interactions to create a cohesive customer experience.

For example, QR code scanning at checkout to accumulate points enhances customer interaction and satisfaction. This integration is crucial for restaurants in the UAE & KSA, where tech-savvy consumers expect such experiences.

  • Future Directions of Loyalty Programs

As loyalty programs evolve, two main trends are shaping their future. On one hand, AI and machine learning will transform loyalty programs by delivering super personal experiences. On the other hand, sustainability and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important as consumers value ethical practices more and more.

  • AI and Machine Learning

These technologies allow restaurants to analyze customer data more effectively, predicting preferences so restaurants can reward and communicate with guests more precisely.

AI-driven micro-segmentation, which enhances targeting and effectiveness beyond generic offers, helps draw consumers in and increase the number of dollars spent. 

  • Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Establishments should aim to match customer values. Some examples are discounts for using reusable containers or eco-conscious packaging. These businesses also align their loyalty programs with broader corporate social responsibility goals.

The future of restaurant loyalty programs is combining AI-driven personalization with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility. Together, these trends set the new standard for how loyalty programs can drive customer satisfaction and long-term business success. 

As restaurants use technology to become more precise with their menu items and loyalty programs, they improve the customer experience and build a deeper connection with their audience. By aligning their loyalty programs with ethical practices and broader social goals, they will resonate more with the values of today’s consumers.

Conclusion

The increasing implementation of loyalty programs highlight their necessity for driving customer retention and revenue growth. As these programs become more tech-driven and socially responsible, restaurants that embrace innovation and mirror their customers’ values will stand out in a competitive market.  

These programs increase customer satisfaction, spending, and repeat visits by rewarding frequent customers with points, discounts, and exclusive offers. Businesses that understand this will build deeper customer loyalty, helping them stand out in a crowded market and remain relevant for years to come.

All these future trends will shape the landscape of loyalty programs, and restaurants that get ahead of the curve and innovate will win customers’ loyalty, while enjoying long-term growth and maintaining a competitive edge in the restaurant industry.

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Infrastructure According To Netscout’s 1H2024 Threat Intelligence Report

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Netscout Report

Netscout Systems released findings from its 1H2024 DDoS Threat Intelligence Report, citing a dramatic 43% increase in the number of application-layer attacks and a 30% increase in volumetric attacks, especially in Europe and the Middle East. Attack duration varied with 70% lasting less than 15 minutes. The escalation of attacks involves a range of threat actors, including hacktivists targeting critical infrastructure in the banking and financial services, government, and utilities sectors. These attacks pose significant threats by disrupting vital civilian services in countries that oppose hacktivists’ ideologies. Key industries, already facing frequent and intense multi-vector attacks, experienced a 55% increase over the past four years.

“Hacktivist activities continue to plague global organizations with more sophisticated and coordinated DDoS attacks against multiple targets simultaneously,” stated Richard Hummel, director, threat intelligence, NETSCOUT. “As adversaries use more resilient, take-down-resistant networks, detection and mitigation are more challenging. This report gives network operations teams insights to fine-tune their strategies to stay ahead of these evolving threats.”

Attack Sophistication Strains Networks Worldwide

DDoS attacks continue to evolve, using innovative technologies and approaches to disrupt networks. During the 1H2024, NETSCOUT observed several significant trends, including:

  • NoName057(16), a pro-Russia hacktivist group, increased its focus on application-layer attacks, particularly HTTP/S GET and POST floods, leading to a 43% rise compared to 1H2023.
  • Bot-infected devices increased by 50% with the emergence of the Zergeca botnet — and the continued evolution of the DDoSia botnet used by NoName057(16) — which uses advanced technologies like DNS over HTTPS (DoH) for command-and-control (C2).
  • Distributed botnet C2 infrastructure leveraging bots as control nodes enabling more decentralized and resilient DDoS attack coordination.

These attacks have triggered widespread disruptions, affecting industries on a global scale. Service slowdowns or outages can cripple revenue streams, delay critical operations, hinder productivity, and significantly elevate organizational risks.

Attackers Targeting New Networks

NETSCOUT also found that the emergence of new networks and autonomous system numbers (ASNs) play a pivotal role in increased DDoS activity. Over 75% of newly established networks are involved with DDoS activities, both as targets or abused participants in furthering attacks on others, within the first 42 days of coming online, as adversaries launch attacks using resilient nuisance networks and bulletproof hosting providers. Organizations need to plan for DDoS protection when splitting off a portion of a network to a new ASN rather than assume automatic protections from upstream service providers.

NETSCOUT’s global internet visibility is backed by decades of experience working with the world’s largest service providers and enterprises. It collects, analyzes, prioritizes, and disseminates data on DDoS attacks from 216 countries and territories, 470 vertical industries, and over 14,000 ASNs. Powered by its ATLAS platform, the company gains insights from more than 500 terabits per second (Tbps) of internet peering network traffic.

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Understanding the Risks of Deploying Artificial Intelligence: Key Insights from Arthur D. Little

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As the digital landscape in the Middle East rapidly evolves, the challenges and essential safeguards needed for the ethical and effective integration of AI technologies in businesses are becoming increasingly critical.

The accelerated development and adoption of AI, particularly generative AI models like ChatGPT have brought significant benefits. However, the potential risks associated with these technologies cannot be overlooked. There is a pressing need for businesses to adopt proactive risk management strategies to address these risks effectively.

Generative AI Biases and Ethical Standards

Generative AI models are known to perpetuate biases inherent in their training data. These biases can reinforce stereotypes and underrepresent minority views across various dimensions, including:

  • Temporal Biases: AI models may generate content that reflects outdated trends and viewpoints.
  • Linguistic Biases: Predominantly English training data can lead to poor performance in other languages.
  • Confirmation Biases: AI models may confirm their parametric memory even when faced with contradictory evidence.
  • Demographic Biases: Biases towards specific genders, races, or social groups, such as generating images of flight attendants predominantly as white women.
  • Cultural Biases: AI models can exacerbate existing cultural prejudices.
  • Ideological and Political Biases: AI can propagate specific political and ideological views from its training data.

Hallucinations and Model Limitations

AI models occasionally produce false information, known as hallucinations, which can include:

  • Knowledge-based Hallucinations: Incorrect factual information.
  • Arithmetic Hallucinations: Incorrect calculations.

For example, Bard, an AI chatbot by Google, generated erroneous accusations about consulting firms in November 2023, illustrating the variability in hallucination rates among models.

Deepfakes and Cybersecurity Threats

The sophistication of AI technology has escalated the risks associated with deepfakes and cybersecurity. The ease of creating deepfakes and manipulating opinions with AI-generated content poses significant threats to societal stability. The surge in deepfake incidents and the enhanced credibility of phishing attacks due to AI highlight the urgent need for robust safeguards.

Proactive Risk Management

Businesses in the Middle East must adopt a proactive approach to AI risk management. Key recommendations include:

  • Understanding Strategic Stakes: Identifying specific challenges and strategic stakes of AI implementation.
  • Conducting Risk Assessments: Integrating thorough risk assessments as part of the initial opportunity landscape.
  • Establishing AI Ethics Codes: Implementing clear AI ethics codes and cross-checking AI outputs.
  • Upskilling Workforce: Training employees and leaders to understand and manage AI technologies.
  • Addressing Trust and Cultural Issues: Facilitating smooth AI adoption by addressing employee trust and cultural issues.

Expert Insights

Dr. Albert Meige, Associate Director of the Technology & Innovation Management Practice at Arthur D. Little, emphasizes the importance of vigilance in AI deployment: “Generative AI holds immense potential, but we must be vigilant about its risks. It’s crucial that businesses in the Middle East adopt comprehensive risk management strategies to ensure that AI integration is both ethical and effective.”

Thomas Kuruvilla, Managing Partner at Arthur D. Little, Middle East, adds, “The Middle East is at the forefront of AI innovation, and with this leadership comes the responsibility to navigate the complexities of AI safely. Businesses need to harness AI’s power while mitigating its risks.”

Navigating the complexities of AI integration is essential for businesses aiming to enhance productivity and innovation without compromising ethical standards and public trust. By adopting recommended guidelines, businesses can effectively manage AI risks and harness its potential for sustainable growth and development.

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