The United Arab Emirates has issued a stark warning over a sharp rise in cyberattacks allegedly linked to Iran, with officials reporting that artificial intelligence tools are now being used to carry out up to 700,000 attempted attacks per day.
According to the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Center, the growing threat is outlined in its latest Cybersecurity Awareness Guide During Crises, released amid escalating regional tensions.
Authorities say AI technologies—including platforms such as ChatGPT—are being leveraged by state-affiliated hackers to enhance the scale and sophistication of cyber operations. These tools are reportedly used for reconnaissance, harvesting sensitive data, identifying system vulnerabilities, and crafting highly convincing phishing campaigns.
The report highlights a 32% spike in phishing incidents during the first quarter of 2026, underscoring how AI is accelerating the effectiveness of social engineering attacks.
Officials also warned that critical infrastructure across the Gulf region has become a primary target. Attempts have been made to disrupt key systems, including data centers and financial networks, raising concerns about broader economic and security implications.
Beyond traditional cyberattacks, the UAE flagged the increasing use of deepfake technology—AI-generated audio and video—as part of coordinated disinformation campaigns. These tactics, authorities caution, are designed to mislead the public and potentially incite panic during already volatile periods.
The warning reflects a broader shift in modern cyber warfare, where artificial intelligence is no longer just a defensive tool but an active weapon in large-scale digital conflict.
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