12,000 Wi-Fi breaches reported in UAE since beginning of 2025
- Last updated: August 24, 2025 | 18:05
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
The UAE Cybersecurity Council has reported more than 12,000 breaches through open and free Wi-Fi networks since the start of 2025, warning of the significant risks associated with using such networks.
The council noted that this figure represents approximately 35% of all cyber attacks targeting the UAE, emphasising that hackers and intruders exploit these networks as effective traps to steal passwords, banking details, and personal information.
The council warned that using these networks can directly lead to the leakage of users' personal and financial data, underscoring the need for advanced security measures, notably the use of trusted VPN applications.
The council explained that users of open Wi-Fi networks are exposed to numerous risks, as hackers and cybercriminals can intercept and read transmitted data, record calls, redirect users to fake websites, and even hijack phone calls.
Additionally, malicious or spyware programmes can be installed on users' devices without their knowledge. The Cybersecurity Council outlined three key steps users should follow to stay safe while browsing on public networks the first of which is using a trusted VPN app to encrypt digital connections, making it difficult for unauthorised parties to intercept data. The second step is enabling "safe browsing" features in web browsers to avoid accessing suspicious websites, while the third is avoiding logging into sensitive accounts, such as banking or personal email, when using open Wi-Fi networks.
It is worth noting that the Cybersecurity Council launched a weekly awareness campaign as part of the "Cyber Pulse" initiative. The second week of this year's campaign is themed "Free Wi-Fi May Expose Your Personal Data", aiming to raise awareness about protecting personal data, the risks of using free Wi-Fi networks, and providing guidance on countering various cyber threats.
The campaign targets both individuals and institutions to enhance cybersecurity awareness, resilience, and culture.