Dubai:Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cyber Security for the UAE Government, emphasized the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in fortifying financial oversight systems against cyberattacks. He made his remarks during the third edition of the Foreseeing Government Audit Future Conference held in Dubai, which is organized by the Financial Audit Authority under the theme 'Smart Audit'.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Kuwaiti highlighted the necessity of empowering human resources and deploying advanced monitoring and early-warning technologies. He also advocated for strengthening partnerships among government, private sectors, and society to effectively address growing cyber threats.
Al Kuwaiti explained that AI supports analysts and auditors by enabling proactive monitoring of potential threats. The UAE's national cybersecurity framework, grounded in both national and international standards, ensures data protection used in financial oversight activities, particularly sensitive data. AI aids in analyzing financial patterns and identifying anomalies, which assists in detecting fraud and organized crime.
He further noted that AI allows for continuous oversight by analyzing and monitoring data and transactions, thus enhancing institutions' abilities to identify and address risks proactively. Emphasizing human resources as the first line of defense, Al Kuwaiti called for training personnel to use AI effectively in detecting potential cyber threats.
He stressed the importance of early-warning systems and rapid monitoring mechanisms to neutralize threats targeting institutions or oversight data. Additionally, Al Kuwaiti underscored the need for partnerships across various sectors to combat cyberattacks, which indiscriminately target institutions and individuals.
Al Kuwaiti concluded by noting that AI can both enhance cybersecurity and pose threats if misused. He pointed to the UAE's model of responsible AI use and recommended raising awareness and empowering human resources as key strategies for enhancing oversight institutions' preparedness.