The complex security risks and governance challenges associated with the widespread adoption of Generative AI, such as ChatGPT, were discussed during the Intersec 2024 Cyber Security Conference, hosted by the UAE Cyber Security Council
According to Gartner, the primary ChatGPT risks related to the security landscape data are privacy & confidentiality and cyber fraud risks. Gartner highlighted that any information entered into ChatGPT, if chat history is not disabled, may become a part of its training dataset, for example.
The session shed light on the existing landscape of governance and regulations within the UAE and the Middle East. Emphasis was placed on UAE's National Strategy for AI 2031, particularly its governance objectives to enhance cybersecurity in AI deployment. Specific policies and initiatives pertinent to the region were addressed.
During the conference, Faheem Siddiqui, group director - Information Security, Majid Al Futtaim, said, “It is imperative for organisations to not only understand the security risks inherent in adopting Generative AI, but also proactively establish robust compliance frameworks. The convergence of technical innovation, ethical considerations, and regulatory alignment is pivotal in cultivating an accountable and transparent AI landscape in the Middle East.”
His Excellency Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, head of the UAE Cyber Security Council, said, “Intersec celebrates a major milestone in 2024 and the UAE Cyber Security Council is proud to support efforts to develop and further grow cyber awareness across the global security sectors at the 25th edition of the show.”
Aside from the conference, Intersec 2024 welcomed 34 cyber security exhibitors, a 10% increase from the 2023 edition of the show, including the Cyber Security Council, Fortinet, Alpha Data, Cisco, Morohub, Dell, Malcrove and Manage Engine.
Grant Tuchten, portfolio director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “This groundbreaking event is a convergence point for top cybersecurity companies, CISOs, and cyber professionals, fostering collaborations and sparking discussions on cutting-edge trends.
“Our unwavering commitment to fortifying digital security propels us towards transformative opportunities, safeguarding the UAE's digital landscape and extending our impact globally.”
The purpose-built Future Defenders Hack Arena, hosted by Malcrove CTF.ae allowed participants to showcase their expertise across diverse cybersecurity domains, including web exploitation, digital forensics, cryptography, exploit development, and reverse engineering. While the Intersec Innovators Arena (IIA) provided a space for SMEs to showcase products to potential investors and offered a conference programme covering topics such as the role of startups in cyber security development and enhancing employment and emaratisation in the cyber security industry.
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