Reports

UAE Faces Rising Malware Threats as Email Attacks Surge 293% Globally: Acronis H1 2024 Report

Published

1 year ago

July 31, 2024

Acronis shared new research findings from the first half of 2024 in its biannual cyberthreats report by Acronis Threat Research Unit. Titled, “Acronis Cyberthreats Report H1 2024: Email attacks surge 293%, new ransomware groups emerge,” the report leverages over one million unique Windows endpoints from 15 key countries around the world to bring awareness to global trends in the cybersecurity industry. Most notably, the report found that email attacks have seen a 293% surge when compared to the same period in 2023.

REGIONAL IMPACT

The UAE witnessed a notable increase in malware detections with an 11.7% increase from January to May 2024. While the region is facing considerable cybersecurity challenges, these are part of a broader trend affecting many EMEA countries, particularly in terms of rising malware detections and high-profile ransomware attacks. Compared to other EMEA countries, the situation in MENA mirrors broader regional challenges. Bahrain had the highest malware detection rate at 63.2% in April 2024, followed by Egypt with 42.6% of organizations experiencing detections in the same month.

“The insights from Acronis’ H1 2024 Cyberthreats Report highlight the urgent need for heightened vigilance and advanced protective measures,” remarked Ziad Nasr, General Manager for the Middle East at Acronis. “The UAE has been identified as a ‘prime target’ for ransomware attacks, as cautioned by the country’s Cyber Security Council. In 2023, the average cost of a data breach in the Middle East exceeded $8 million.”

“MSPs are particularly vulnerable, facing persistent threats such as phishing, social engineering, and supply chain attacks,” Ziad continued. “Acronis encourages MSPs to adopt comprehensive security strategies, incorporating security awareness training, and leveraging advanced endpoint protection solutions like XDR and multi-factor authentication. Our commitment to delivering actionable insights through the Cyberthreats Report aims to empower organizations and enhance global cybersecurity resilience.”

EMERGING TRENDS

Ransomware continues to be a major threat to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), particularly in critical industries such as government and healthcare. In Q1 2024, Acronis observed 10 new ransomware groups who together claimed 84 cyberattacks globally. Among the top 10 most active ransomware families detected during this time, three highly active groups stand out as the primary contributors, collectively responsible for 35% of the attacks: LockBit, Black Basta, and PLAY. The number of ransomware detections were also on the rise, increasing 32% from Q4 2023 to Q1 2024.

In support of Acronis’ mission to tailor business initiatives to Managed Service Providers (MSPs), the report is observant of how MSPs are being targeted and compromised. Of note, attack vectors including phishing and social engineering, vulnerability exploits, credential compromises, and supply chain attacks were highlighted as the most successful techniques used to breach MSPs’ cybersecurity defenses.

“As a result of the increasing volume and complexities of cyber threats we continue to uncover in the current cybersecurity landscape, it is of the utmost importance that MSPs take a holistic approach to securing their customer’s data, systems, and unique digital infrastructures,” said Irina Artioli, report author and Cyber Protection Evangelist at Acronis Threat Research Unit. “To do this effectively, we recommend MSPs adopt a comprehensive security strategy, including mandating security awareness trainings and incident response planning, as well as deploying advanced endpoint protection solutions like extended detection and response (XDR), multi-factor authentication, and more.”

Additionally, the report focuses on emerging cybersecurity trends, highlighting the increasing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) by threat groups. Specifically, it underscores the growing prevalence of AI being leveraged in social engineering and automation attacks. The most common AI-generated attacks that were detected include malicious emails, deepfake business email compromise (BEC), deepfake extortions, KYC bypass, and script and malware generation. Furthermore, Acronis researchers have identified two types of AI threats. The first involves AI-generated threats, in which malware is created using AI techniques but does not utilize AI in its operations. The second is AI-enabled malware, which incorporates AI into its functionality.

Other key findings from the report include:Middle East Threat Landscape & Trends:
● UAE’s monthly percentages of global detections remained relatively lower compared to high-risk countries like Germany, France, and Egypt, highlighting a growing but still manageable cyber threat landscape.
● The UAE had varying monthly percentages of global detections ranging from 0.8% to 1.9% throughout the first half of 2024. In comparison, Germany’s percentages ranged from 6.4% to 9.9%, France’s ranged from 3.6% to 5.5%, and the United Kingdom’s ranged from 4.3% to 6.1%.
● The UAE experienced a significant rise in the percentage of clients with malware detections. 17.6% of clients with malware detections in January 2024, 18.8% in February, 29.1% in March, 29.3% in April and May. The sharp increase in malware detections among UAE clients, reflects a concerning trend of escalating cyber threats, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.
● Other EMEA countries like Bahrain and Egypt also showed high malware detection rates, indicating a broader regional challenge
● The ransomware attack on Seven Seas Technologies in the UAE highlights the region’s vulnerability to such threats, similar to high-profile cases in other EMEA countries
● The emergence of various ransomware groups targeting different sectors across the EMEA region indicates a widespread and diversified threat landscape

Global Threat Landscape:
● Bahrain, Egypt, and South Korea were the top countries targeted by malware attacks in Q1 2024.
● 28 million URLs were blocked at the endpoint in Q1 2024.
● 27.6 % of all received emails were spam and 1.5% contained malware or phishing links.
● The average lifespan of a malware sample in the wild is 2.3 days.
● 1,048 cases of ransomware were publicly reported in Q1 2024, a 23% increase over Q1 2023.

Cybersecurity Trends in H1 2024:
● Ransomware continues to be a major threat to SMBs, and ransomware groups have abused vulnerable drivers to get a foothold in systems and disable security tools.
● In the first quarter of 2024, PowerShell was the most frequently detected MITRE technique.
● The number of email attacks detected in H1 2024 surged by 293% compared to the first half of 2023.

Ransomware Trends:
● In Q1 2024, Acronis researchers observed 10 new ransomware groups that together claimed 84 cyberattacks globally.
● The number of ransomware detections increased 32% from Q4 2023 to Q1 2024.

Attacks on MSPs:
● MSPs were under consistent attack from January to May 2024, with data revealing email phishing campaigns were the most used by attackers.
● The top five most frequently discovered MITRE ATT&CK techniques in the first half of the year included PowerShell, Windows Management Instrumentation, Process Injection, Data Manipulation and Account Discovery.

Phishing and email attacks:
● Organizations experienced a surge in email communications, with the number of emails per organization increasing by 25%.
● The rise in email volume coincided with a 47% increase in email attacks targeting organizations.
● 26% of users encountered phishing attempts through malicious URLs.
● Social engineering increased 5% since H1 2023; however, malware attacks decreased from 11% in H1 2023 to 4% in H1 2024.

Leveraging AI:
● Cybercriminals continue to leverage malicious AI tools like WormGPT and FraudGPT.
● While AI can assist attackers at every stage of the cyberattack kill chain, it can also be used as a defense mechanism as it allows for around the clock detection of attacks and reports them to experts to take appropriate response actions to ensure smooth business continuity.

The Acronis H1 2024 Cyberthreats Report is curated by Acronis Threat Research Unit and includes data surrounding ransomware threats, phishing, malicious websites and software vulnerabilities, and tips on how to protect against the aforementioned threats. Released bi-annually, the Acronis Cyberthreats Report sets the industry standard by consistently establishing itself as a benchmark for cybersecurity intelligence. Acronis’ analysis of the current cyber threat landscape is published for the benefit of its users, partners, and the broader, global cybersecurity community to help them stay abreast of ongoing cybersecurity developments.

Reports

Sports fans demand always-on engagement from their favorite teams

Published

7 days ago

October 24, 2025

Integrator Web-Admin

FVC Partners SearchInform for MENA Insider Threat Prevention

Research commissioned by global cloud communications platform Infobip reveals a growing demand among sports fans for always-on, personalized engagement with their favorite teams. The study shows that two-thirds (66%) of fans feel disconnected due to poor club communication, rising to 81% among those under 35. The research of 1,500 football, baseball, cricket, and American football fans across the US, Europe, and India, uncovers widespread frustration with generic, one-way communication and a strong appetite for deeper relationships with clubs beyond game days.

More than 70% of fans want ongoing communication during the off-season, including behind-the-scenes content and personal stories from players. Meanwhile, 82% currently use social media to follow their teams, though many expressed interest in richer, exclusive content through direct messaging and mobile apps.

Many described current engagement as transactional and impersonal, with nearly half feeling like “just a number.” Affordability also emerged as a major barrier — 61% of fans overall said rising costs of subscriptions, tickets, and merchandise are pricing them out of the game.

Driven by a desire to better understand evolving fan needs and explore how technology can reshape sports engagement, the study highlights a significant opportunity for clubs to boost loyalty and fan satisfaction through digital innovation and personalized communication.

Zeid Shubailat, Director at Infobip MENA, said: “Fans across the GCC are seeking a deeper, two-way relationship with their teams that keeps them engaged year-round, not just during major tournaments or match days. The region’s sports scene is rapidly evolving; Saudi Arabia, for example, has invested over $6 billion in its sports industry as part of Vision 2030, resulting in the rise of the football league and significant international sponsorships. Top-tier global racing competitions has also seen tremendous growth, with races now hosted in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and the UAE, drawing global attention and participation. With advanced technologies like Conversational AI Gamification, sports organizations can deliver highly personalized, real-time fan experiences that foster loyalty and boost participation. Infobip’s AI-driven chatbots on platforms such as WhatsApp empower fans to instantly ask questions, access exclusive content, and receive updates 24/7, helping clubs and leagues across the GCC build stronger, more connected communities.”

Infobip’s platform empowers teams to deliver this next-generation engagement — from real-time match alerts and early ticket sales to seamless personalized support. The result: stronger fan relationships, increased merchandise sales, higher viewership, and new revenue streams.

Infobip is already transforming fan engagement for major sports organizations worldwide. For the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team, Infobip deploys AI-powered chatbots and messaging platforms like WhatsApp to offer real-time interaction, including the upcoming ‘RaceMate’ AI companion and an interactive AI version of F1 driver Oliver Bearman that bring fans closer to the team. In the US, Infobip partners with the Los Angeles Chargers to enhance fan communication through Apple Messages for Business, delivering exclusive content and instant updates.

Read the survey here: https://www.infobip.com/downloads/sports-fan-engagement-report

Hospitality

The State of Hotel Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Optimization Talent

Published

9 months ago

February 13, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

How do you meet the needs of multigenerational workforces? How is the rise of the gig economy and fractional staffing models changing talent sourcing? How do you retain tomorrow’s leaders? How do you unlock the full potential of AI in your organization?

These questions, and many more pieces of the hospitality industry’s talent puzzle, will be discussed at this year’s HSMAI Middle East & Africa Commercial Strategy Conference, taking place on 26-27 November at Conrad Dubai.

Jason Smith, Vice President Marketing Communications at HSMAI, will be decoding new talent dynamics with a deep dive into the HSMAI Foundation’s State of Talent Report 2024, authored by industry expert Dorothy Dowling, and reveal the biggest challenges facing the industry. The report will jumpstart one of the key content tracks at this year’s conference – human capital.

Structured around nine key trends, the annual report investigates issues such as the impact of the 65+ workforce, managing 4-generation talent pools, transforming employee engagement, leveraging AI for productivity, emotional wellness, cross functional teamwork, culture-defining leadership, and gig and fractional talent models.

“Significant developments and emerging shifts are impacting talent within hospitality. In this report, we shine a light on the implications for the industry’s recruitment and retention strategies. We dive into the trends influencing human capital, particularly in sales, marketing, and revenue optimization, and present actionable strategies for creating inclusive, dynamic and forward-thinking workplace environments”, said Jason Smith, Vice President Marketing Communications, HSMAI.

In the lead up to the conference we asked regional industry leaders about their human capital strategies and the opportunities and challenges they see when it comes to talent attraction and retention.

“In a business where people serve people, it is fundamental to lead with culture and understand what team members need to thrive,” said Marie-Louise Ek, Vice President Human Resources – Middle East & Africa, Hilton. “At Hilton, we are committed to building an inclusive workplace driven by purpose, that offers team members opportunities to grow and feel empowered. This requires curiosity, creativity, and the ability to connect every team member to our purpose. We know that every job makes the stay and happy and engaged team members drive our customer experience as well as benefit our owners and the communities where we operate.” Marie-Louise Ek will be hosting one of the Lightening Rounds at the conference titled: ‘Unlocking Successful Commercial Collaboration: The People-First Approach.’

“At Jumeirah we value our people as our greatest asset, fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace where every colleague feels valued and inspired. Committed to career growth, creativity and exceptional standards, we support team success, motivating our people to deliver outstanding service, contribute to communities, and grow as future leaders,” said Jaime Simpson, General Manager Jumeirah Mina Al Salam, who will be hosting a Lightening Round on ‘The Evolving Workplace’ at this year’s conference.

The comprehensive report concludes that the future of the hospitality industry will likely be a combination of advanced technology and the human touch, delivering exceptional experiences for customers and fostering a supportive work environment for employees.

“Now more than ever, sales professionals are looking for work/life balance, and culture is one of the most important deciding factors in choosing their next employer,” states Tammy Gillis, Sales Industry Expert in the report. “Many salespeople are tired of working on property and getting pulled into operations and want full-time remote or hybrid remote positions. They also value training, coaching, and support which the hotel industry does not consistently provide.”

Reports

GCC Trade Set to Grow 5.5% Annually Through 2033, with Total Trade Volume Reaching 2.3T USD, BCG Report Finds

Published

9 months ago

January 29, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Global trade patterns are transforming significantly as new economic corridors emerge and traditional relationships evolve. According to new research from Boston Consulting Group (BCG), world trade in goods is projected to grow at an average of 2.9% annually through 2033, with the GCC region playing an increasingly pivotal role in connecting major trade routes between East and West.

These insights are among the key findings of BCG’s latest report, “Great Powers, Geopolitics, and the Future of Trade,” which analyzes trade and economic data from more than 150 countries. The report comprehensively analyzes how shifting global trade dynamics will impact regional and international commerce through 2033.

Strong Trade Growth Across Key GCC Corridors

The BCG report reveals a robust outlook for GCC trade, with total trade volume set to reach 2.3T USD by 2033. This growth is supported by significant expansion across multiple trade corridors, with China emerging as the largest growth market at 88B USD (5.7% CAGR), followed by Japan at 46B USD (9.4% CAGR). The analysis shows GCC’s non-hydrocarbon trade will grow by 3.5% annually, highlighting the region’s successful economic diversification efforts.

As global trade patterns shift, the GCC strengthens its position as a critical connector between East and West. This is evidenced by the broader transformation in global trade flows, where China’s trade with the Global South is set to increase by $1.25T and trade between developing nations is projected to grow by $673B through 2033. The GCC’s strategic location and expanding infrastructure position the region to capture value from these evolving trade dynamics.

Rami Rafih, Managing Director and Partner at BCG, said: “The reconfiguration of global trade flows presents a pivotal moment for the GCC. As trade routes transform, the region isn’t just a geographic intermediary but a central orchestrator of new patterns. The GCC’s deliberate investment in capabilities positions it to achieve greater success through developing proactive and risk-based options rather than defaulting to reactionary responses. The key is leveraging this foundation to shape emerging trade corridors, particularly as Global South commerce evolves.”

Global Trade Shifts Create New Opportunities

The report identifies major transformations across key trading regions that will reshape global commerce. While North America solidifies as a resilient trade bloc with US-Mexico trade increasing by $315B by 2033, ASEAN emerges as a significant beneficiary of global shifts with 3.7% annual trade growth. India’s trajectory is particularly notable, with total trade expected to reach $1.8T annually by 2033, driven by its increasing role as a global manufacturing hub.

The growing power of the Global South represents one of the most significant developments in global trade. Representing 18% of global GDP and 62% of the world’s population, these 133 developing nations are set to expand their trade significantly. Annual trade among Global South nations will grow by $673B over the next decade, while trade between the Global South and developed economies is projected to reach $1.67T annually by 2033.

To navigate these shifting trade dynamics and capitalize on emerging opportunities, BCG’s report outlines several key imperatives for business leaders in the region:

Key Recommendations for Business Leaders

Develop resilient and transparent supply chains by diversifying sourcing strategies and deepening relationships with key suppliers across emerging trade corridors
Build geopolitical capabilities to better anticipate and respond to changing trade dynamics, particularly in rapidly evolving markets across Asia and Africa
Expand presence in growth markets, focusing on opportunities in India, China, and other emerging economies where GCC trade is projected to grow significantly
Embrace smart nearshoring strategies that leverage the GCC’s strategic position between East and West trade routes
Invest in regional differentiation as global trade fragments, adapting operations and technology to serve diverse market requirements

Cristian Rodriguez-Chiffelle, Partner and Director, Trade, Investment & Geopolitics at BCG, said: “For business leaders, navigating today’s complex trade landscape requires more than agile supply chains – it demands an insights-driven approach to geopolitical shifts. Success will come to those who cultivate deep market intelligence, develop robust scenario planning, and build a portfolio of strategic options, thus building a “geopolitical muscle.” While diversification improves resilience, the real opportunity lies in shaping new trading partnerships that bridge geopolitical divides, and extracts not only challenges but also opportunities arising from geopolitical events.”