The UAE Ministry of Interior, represented by the Federal Criminal Police Department, has held a workshop in Abu Dhabi to advance the development of a national strategy to combat cyber fraud as part of efforts to strengthen digital security and protect the community.
The workshop brought together police leaders from across the UAE, senior officers and officials, representatives of the federal and local public prosecution offices, the Central Bank, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, and several ministries and partner entities.
Discussions focused on developing a comprehensive national framework to combat cyber fraud by strengthening coordination among relevant entities, adopting preventive and proactive measures, improving response mechanisms, and enhancing protection against cybercrime.
Brigadier General Abdulaziz Al Ahmad, Director-General of UAE Federal Criminal Police, said that the development of a national strategy represents an important step towards establishing an integrated national framework to combat cyber fraud through unified efforts, closer cooperation among partners, and the adoption of proactive measures guided by international best practices.
He added that the expertise brought together through the workshop would contribute to formulating practical initiatives and recommendations that support digital and financial security while strengthening the readiness of the relevant authorities. He noted that these efforts are aligned with the UAE’s vision of building an advanced and sustainable security system that safeguards society and its achievements.
Focus on cyber fraud trends & emerging cyber threats
The workshop also reviewed global cyber fraud trends, including emerging fraud methods and evolving criminal techniques, and discussed the strategic objectives and performance indicators that will support implementation of the national strategy in line with the evolving nature of cybercrime.
During the sessions, the Ministry presented its Cyber Fraud Risk Assessment Guide and the draft National Strategy to Combat Cyber Fraud. Participants also reviewed the role of the Cyber Fraud Control Centre within the national framework in supporting prevention, early detection and effective response.
A brainstorming session explored strategic priorities, including prevention and proactive measures, legislation, future capabilities, smart connectivity and the use of artificial intelligence technologies, with the aim of developing national initiatives to reduce cyber fraud and strengthen prevention efforts. The workshop concluded with a review of key recommendations, with participants agreeing to prioritize proposed initiatives for inclusion in the draft national strategy.
