emirates7 - The UAE Cyber Security Council (CSC) has raised concerns over the increasing risks tied to users’ digital footprints, noting that more than 1.4 billion accounts are hacked worldwide each month.
According to the council, every online activity—whether logging in, posting, or interacting—creates a trace that can be exploited. It explained that digital footprints fall into two categories: passive footprints, collected without the user’s awareness through website and app tracking, and active footprints, which are created directly by users through photos, videos, comments, and posts.
The CSC warned that poorly secured data can expose individuals to privacy breaches, phishing attempts, account hijacking, and even identity theft. It highlighted the dangers of using unofficial or unverified applications, some of which may record calls or access cameras without consent.
To reduce risks, the council urged users to download apps only from trusted stores, carefully review app permissions, activate two-factor authentication, and be cautious when sharing locations or accepting friend requests.
It emphasized that safeguarding digital security depends not only on technological measures but also on user awareness, stressing that individuals must take responsibility for managing their online traces.
The warning was issued as part of the CSC’s weekly “Cyber Pulse” awareness campaign, with the fifth installment focusing on the risks of unsecured digital footprints.
According to the council, every online activity—whether logging in, posting, or interacting—creates a trace that can be exploited. It explained that digital footprints fall into two categories: passive footprints, collected without the user’s awareness through website and app tracking, and active footprints, which are created directly by users through photos, videos, comments, and posts.
The CSC warned that poorly secured data can expose individuals to privacy breaches, phishing attempts, account hijacking, and even identity theft. It highlighted the dangers of using unofficial or unverified applications, some of which may record calls or access cameras without consent.
To reduce risks, the council urged users to download apps only from trusted stores, carefully review app permissions, activate two-factor authentication, and be cautious when sharing locations or accepting friend requests.
It emphasized that safeguarding digital security depends not only on technological measures but also on user awareness, stressing that individuals must take responsibility for managing their online traces.
The warning was issued as part of the CSC’s weekly “Cyber Pulse” awareness campaign, with the fifth installment focusing on the risks of unsecured digital footprints.