Proofpoint Showcases AI-Driven Cybersecurity Solutions at GITEX 2024

Exclusive Interview with Haifa Ketiti – Senior System Engineer at Proofpoint

• What innovative AI and machine learning (ML) solutions is Proofpoint showcasing at GITEX 2024, and how do they enhance cybersecurity for businesses in the Middle East?

At GITEX 2024, we are showcasing two Proofpoint AI-powered platforms, Nexus and Zen, which are designed to empower organizations to protect their most valuable asset—people. Nexus uses advanced AI and behavior analysis to detect threats in real-time across the digital environments people rely on daily, like email, cloud services, and collaboration apps. Our recent study shows that 92% of UAE businesses face phishing attacks, and Nexus is our way of helping organizations stay ahead by adapting their protection based on user behavior.

Zen complements Nexus by delivering comprehensive, human-centric protection. It ensures that people working across various digital channels remain secure with real-time, adaptive security policies. Together, Nexus and Zen empower businesses to build a safer and more resilient digital workspace, giving employees the confidence to work securely.

• How is Proofpoint addressing the growing threat of AI-driven malware and ransomware attacks, and what should businesses prioritize when protecting against these sophisticated cyber threats?

Proofpoint addresses the growing threat of AI-driven malware and ransomware with advanced AI capabilities that scale security measures beyond traditional methods. Our systems detect anomalies and threats before they cause damage, leveraging AI to analyze vast data sets in real time, offering proactive protection. Proofpoint’s Voice of the CISO Report 2024 highlights that 70% of CISOs surveyed in the UAE feel at risk of experiencing a material cyber attack in the next 12 months, compared to 75% in 2023 and 44% in 2022.

To combat these threats, businesses should invest in scalable AI solutions that offer real-time detection and response capabilities while also focusing on educating employees to recognize sophisticated threats like ransomware and social engineering. By combining technology and awareness programs, businesses can strengthen their security posture and reduce vulnerabilities.

• With increasing concerns around data privacy, especially in the cloud and collaboration platforms, how does Proofpoint ensure organizations maintain secure data governance and prevent data breaches?

Data privacy is increasingly critical as businesses depend on cloud services and collaboration platforms. Proofpoint’s approach gives organizations visibility and control over their data interactions, ensuring they can proactively detect and respond to risks. According to the Data Loss Landscape Report 2024, organizations in the UAE experience an average of 24 data loss incidents per year, with 71% of these incidents attributed to careless users.

Proofpoint’s solutions monitor user behavior in real time, applying AI-driven policies to secure data and prevent unauthorized access. By focusing on these human-centric measures, we empower organizations to maintain robust data governance and reduce the likelihood of breaches, even as digital environments become more complex.

• Human error remains a significant vulnerability in cybersecurity. What are Proofpoint’s top recommendations for businesses to minimize this risk and create a security-aware culture?

Human error remains the leading cause of cyber incidents. According to our Voice of the CISO Report 2024, 76% of CISOs in the UAE identify it as their top vulnerability. To minimize this risk, Proofpoint recommends a multi-layered approach:

• Implementing AI solutions that monitor user behavior in real-time is essential, allowing organizations to identify risky activities and prevent incidents before they escalate.
• Continuous education is crucial. Beyond traditional training, fostering a security-aware culture requires initiatives that drive behavior change. By teaching employees to recognize and react to potential threats like phishing and social engineering, businesses build a more resilient workforce.
• Since careless actions remain a leading cause of data loss, implementing DLP technologies, such as advanced email filtering, threat intelligence integration, and secure browsing solutions, reduces the chances of human error leading to breaches by detecting and blocking threats before they reach employees.

By combining advanced technology with proactive user engagement and education, businesses can significantly reduce the risks associated with human error and build a security-aware culture.