ECMEA May 2024

POST-GISEC NARRATIVES ON CYBERSECURITY INNOVATION

14TH MAY 2024 - UAE

Welcome to the May issue of Enterprise Channels MEA.

In recent weeks, our region has faced significant disruptive challenges, highlighting the critical importance of readiness and safety measures. In the same vein, cybersecurity has risen as a paramount concern amidst these uncertain times, with threats looming from different directions.

The rapid evolution and adoption of artificial intelligence have further exacerbated the problem, with threat actors wielding this transformative technology to launch targeted and sophisticated cyber attacks. In this context, organisations have to reimagine their security strategies and find ways to bolster cyber resilience, which, incidentally, was the key theme for this year’s GISEC.

This edition of Enterprise Channels focuses on the key highlights and discussions from GISEC. We’ve had the privilege of engaging in insightful conversations with cybersecurity leaders, who have shared their perspectives and strategies for combating the escalating cyber threats.

Throughout our engagements with industry stakeholders at GISEC, a clear and urgent theme surfaced: the need for heightened awareness and widespread knowledge sharing. However, it goes beyond mere awareness-raising; it entails equipping employees with the right knowledge to navigate the intricate cybersecurity landscape effectively.

Our upcoming Security Symposium UAE edition, slated for the 14th of May, will delve into some of these burning issues and the concept of zero trust, a topic that has captured the attention of cybersecurity practitioners. Across our events in KSA, Qatar, and Pakistan, discussions have centered around cybersecurity and the proactive measures needed to address emerging threats effectively.

As we continue to navigate the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape, let this edition serve as a beacon of knowledge and insights, empowering you to stay ahead of the curve and safeguard your organization against evolving threats.

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Sectona showcases innovative privilege access management solutions at GISEC 2024

In an exclusive interview at GISEC 2024, Nitish Kumar, founder of Sectona Privilege Access Management Company, discussed the company’s focus on modern infrastructure access and its relevance in the digital transformation journey of the region.

Kumar highlighted Sectona’s participation in GISEC for the seventh consecutive year, expressing excitement about the event. He emphasized the company’s efforts to showcase their differentiated technology, which focuses on securing privilege accounts and secrets, particularly in the context of developers.

When asked about the response from vendors, partners, and resellers, Kumar noted the positive support and collaboration within the vendor community. He emphasized the importance of collaboration

and integration to provide a common platform for customers, acknowledging that cybersecurity is a collective effort.

In response to a question about the message for attendees, Kumar emphasized the importance of securing modern infrastructure, particularly through developer-centric security measures. He stressed the need for ongoing engagement and collaboration to address cyber threats effectively.

The interview concluded with Kumar thanking the audience and expressing readiness to provide more information about Sectona after the trade show. This interview highlights Sectona’s commitment to providing innovative Privilege Access Management solutions and their emphasis on collaboration and engagement to address cybersecurity challenges effectively.

ScanWeb revolutionizes cybersecurity for banks at GISEC 2024

Sunna, Founder and Chairman of ScanWeb, introduced the company as an integrated risk management service provider specializing in governance, risk, and compliance. With 18 years of experience in the market, ScanWeb primarily focuses on the banking industry, helping them build integrated risk management

roadmaps that align business and IT strategies while integrating cybersecurity culture into their organizations’ ethos and behavior.

In an interview at GiantSector 2024, Ramzi highlighted ScanWeb’s role in designing complete governance processes for customers in the MENA and GCC regions, emphasizing

the importance of people, process, and technology in achieving better performance in governance, risk, and compliance.

When asked about the security services provided to banks, Ramzi discussed the stringent regulations set by central banks in the GCC countries. ScanWeb specializes in the NISA Compliancy Programme, a cybersecurity initiative mandated for all governmental entities handling confidential data. They also excel in SWIFT cybersecurity assessments, securing international and domestic transactions, and are qualified to secure cardholder data environments within the banking industry across the GCC.

At GiantSector, ScanWeb showcased their ComplyWave platform, which integrates eight solutions into one, utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance cybersecurity. Ramzi expressed ScanWeb’s future plans to provide smart insights to banking industry boards and top management using AI and machine learning for better decision-making in risk identification, analysis, assessment, and treatment.

Nitish Kumar, CEO, Sectona

Huawei showcases cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions at GISEC

Karan Veer, Chief Architect at Huawei, leading the data protection portfolio across the Middle East and Central Asia, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to showcase the company’s cybersecurity and ransomware protection solutions at GISEC. Huawei’s presence at the event is centered around three key pillars: datacentric security, network security, and cloud security.

The company’s focus on cybersecurity is evident in its development of solutions that promote complete cyber resilience within customer environments. Huawei emphasizes collaborative solutions, particularly in the realms of network and data-centric security. One notable framework unveiled at GISEC is the multilayer ransomware protection, which integrates network security with data security to enhance overall cybersecurity measures.

Customers of Huawei benefit not only from cutting-edge products developed through extensive R&D efforts but also from a customercentric support approach. Huawei ensures that its solutions remain ahead of the technology curve

while providing exceptional customer support Attendees at GISEC are encouraged to visit Huawei’s booth to learn more about the company’s cybersecurity products and

innovative solutions. Huawei is committed to delivering top-notch cybersecurity solutions that empower businesses to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats.

Optimas AI launches groundbreaking cyber risk quantification platform at GISEC 2024

Aadesh Gawde, Founder, Managing Director, CPO, Optimas AI

Adesh Gowde, Founder, Managing Director, and Chief Product Officer of Optimas AI, announced the official launch of Optimas AI’s cyber risk quantification and validation platform at the Gulf Information Security Expo & Conference (GISEC) 2024. Optimas AI, based in the United States, is expanding its operations into the AsiaPacific and Middle East regions.

Traditionally, risk management has been a discipline rooted in manual processes. However, with the advent of AI and the exponential growth of data, the context of risk management has shifted. Optimas AI is at the forefront of this shift, pioneering cognitive risk management where AI takes on the heavy lifting, learning from human rationale to simulate and emulate human decision-making.

“AI brings its own concerns, including adversarial AI and ethical AI,” Gowde noted. “While AI can enhance risk management processes, it also introduces new risks such as bias and ethical dilemmas. Despite these challenges, the use of AI in risk management is essential, given the complexity and volume of data in today’s cybersecurity landscape.”

Optimas AI’s platform offers two key differentiators. Firstly, it is industry-centric, providing tailored cyber risk quantification solutions for industries such as telecom,

banking, oil and gas, and transportation. Secondly, it offers native capabilities for the entire cycle of cognitive risk management, ensuring independence from third-party tools and interfaces.

“We are not just solving a cyber problem; we are solving a business problem,” Gowde explained. “Our platform quantifies the impact of cyber risks on business, including financial, reputational, and regulatory impacts. This business-centric approach sets us apart from other solutions in the market.”

At GISEC 2024, Optimas AI also unveiled BETTER, a non-profit initiative and risk quantification framework open-sourced to the public. BETTER (Business Technology Exposure and Resilience Management) is designed to help organizations quantify cyber risks effectively and contribute to the advancement of cyber risk quantification practices.

Karan Veer, Chief Architect, Huawei

SolarWinds talks observability and cybersecurity at GISEC 2024

Abdul Rehman, Regional Sales Director for SolarWinds in the Middle East, participated in an interview at (GISEC) 2024, highlighting the company’s focus on observability and cybersecurity.

Rehman began by emphasizing the importance of visibility in cybersecurity, stating, “You can’t defend what you can’t see.” He explained that while SolarWinds is not primarily a cybersecurity company, their hybrid cloud observability platform provides customers with visibility into potential security breaches, enabling them to protect their systems effectively.

SolarWinds showcased their hybrid cloud observability platform at GISEC, along with security solutions such as access right manager, security event manager, and database security platform. Rehman also discussed the company’s “secure by design” framework,

“We want to help customers reduce the number of solutions they have,” Rehman stated. “Our goal is to provide a single pane of glass through our Orion platform, giving customers visibility not just into their hybrid cloud environment but also into their security posture.”

Regarding the future, Rehman expressed confidence in SolarWinds’ ability to evolve and adapt to changing market trends. He emphasized the importance of data security and performance, noting that SolarWinds’ observability platform addresses both aspects, ensuring that data is protected and systems perform optimally.

As SolarWinds continues to innovate and develop new solutions, Rehman believes that the company’s focus on providing comprehensive observability and security solutions will position them well for future success.

ARCON founder introduces converged identity platform for cybersecurity at GISEC 2024

Anil Bhandari, Founder of ARCON, unveiled the company’s innovative approach to cybersecurity with the launch of their converged identity platform at GISEC 2024. The platform aims to streamline and simplify identity management by integrating adaptive authentication, provisioning, deprovisioning, privileged access management, machine identity, and governance solutions into a single comprehensive offering.

Bhandari emphasized the need for a consolidated approach to cybersecurity, highlighting the challenges faced by organizations managing multiple identity products. He noted that while individual technologies may excel at specific tasks, they often lack the ability to deliver holistic outcomes over time. The ARCON platform seeks to address this issue by providing a unified solution that combines various aspects

of identity management into a single, cohesive platform.

The response to the platform has been overwhelmingly positive, with 20 ongoing deployments in the Middle East region alone. Organizations are eager to simplify their cybersecurity infrastructure and reduce the complexity associated with managing multiple solutions.

In addition to the platform launch, Bhandari discussed the evolving nature of cybersecurity and the need for deep tech solutions to address complex challenges. He emphasized the importance of adopting new technologies and staying ahead of the curve, particularly in regions like the Middle East where technology adoption is accelerating.

ARCON’s converged identity platform represents a significant step forward in the field of cybersecurity, offering organizations a comprehensive solution to manage and protect their digital identities. The platform is set to transform the way organizations approach identity management, providing them with the tools they need to secure their digital assets effectively.

which ensures that their software is built with security in mind from the ground up.

Abdul Rehman, Regional Sales Director, SolarWinds

Anil bhandari, Founder, ARCON

Introducing Microsoft Security Copilot

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity has become more crucial than ever. With the surge of AI-driven threats, businesses require innovative solutions to combat emerging risks effectively. Enter Microsoft Security Copilot, a cutting-edge virtual assistant designed to empower cybersecurity professionals in the fight against

cyber threats.

At the forefront of Microsoft’s commitment to cybersecurity, Security Copilot harnesses the power of generative AI to revolutionize cyber defense strategies. Built on the advanced GPT-4 model and trained specifically on cybersecurity data, this intelligent assistant processes an astounding 65 trillion threat signals daily. With

such unprecedented scale and speed, Security Co-Pilot offers unparalleled insights and actionable strategies to safeguard your digital assets.

Imagine having a dedicated AI companion that not only detects and analyzes threats but also guides you through crafting effective response strategies in real-time. Whether you’re a CISO, part of a SOC operations team, or a cybersecurity professional, Security Copilot is tailored to augment your capabilities and enhance your cyber defense posture.

During its early adoption phase in the UAE, Security Copilot has garnered immense excitement and positive feedback from more than 10 pioneering customers. Now, it takes center stage at JISEC, showcasing its transformative potential to a global audience.

But Microsoft’s commitment to cybersecurity doesn’t stop there. Recognizing that cybersecurity is an ongoing journey, not a one-time fix, Microsoft emphasizes continuous learning and upskilling. Through comprehensive programs and tools, Microsoft not only equips organizations with advanced technology but also empowers employees at all levels with the knowledge and awareness needed to thwart cyber threats effectively.

Sangfor Technologies unveils synergy solution for comprehensive cybersecurity at GISEC 2024

Guy Rosefelt, CPO, Sangfor Technologies

Guy Roosevelt, Chief Product Officer of Sangfor Technologies, a prominent cybersecurity and infrastructure company in

Asia, highlighted the company’s success and expansion into the GCC region at GISEC 2024. Sangfor Technologies, known for its expertise in governance risk and compliance, has established a strong presence in the region with offices in Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.

At GISEC, Sangfor Technologies showcased its Synergy solution, which integrates their products to bridge gaps between security spheres and enhance threat detection using AI. This innovative approach aims to improve security operations in organizations with limited security expertise or teams.

Roosevelt emphasized the evolving nature of cyber threats, particularly the weaponization of artificial intelligence by attackers. He stressed the importance of proactive measures against these threats, including continuous security assessments and updating security tools regularly.

As organizations adapt to remote work and dynamic network environments, traditional security measures are no longer sufficient. Sangfor Technologies advocates for a new software-defined perimeter to protect against modern cyber threats effectively.

Roosevelt outlined a strategic approach for organizations to enhance their security posture, emphasizing continuous assessment, gap identification, and implementing AI-based security tools. He also underscored the importance of budgeting for cybersecurity as a critical investment in protecting against revenue loss, customer confidence erosion, and brand damage.

Sangfor Technologies remains committed to empowering organizations with cuttingedge cybersecurity solutions, helping them navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape with confidence.

Tariq Halawani, Executive Director, Microsoft

ZeroTouch.ai introduces next-generation unified endpoint management solution at GISEC 2024

Mehmet Gonullu, Vice President for Middle East and Africa at ZeroTouch.ai, announced the company’s entry into the region and showcased their innovative unified endpoint management solution at GISEC 2024. ZeroTouch.ai, a startup based in the United States, aims to revolutionize endpoint management by consolidating Mobile Device Management (MDM), patch management, remote desktop, remote shell, and CIS benchmark reporting into a single, comprehensive platform.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Gonullu highlighted the market demand for cost-effective solutions that

Mehmet Gonullu, VP, Middle East and Africa, ZeroTouch.ai

Banyan Cloud pioneers innovation in cloud security

streamline operations. ZeroTouch.ai’s unified endpoint management solution has garnered significant interest from both channel partners and customers seeking to optimize their IT infrastructure and reduce complexity.

SecureNet, to explore a live demo and experience the full range of tools offered. The company is also open to engaging in proof of concept initiatives to demonstrate the effectiveness of their solution.

ZeroTouch.ai’s innovative approach to endpoint management promises to redefine the industry standard, offering organizations a seamless and efficient solution to manage their endpoints.

Led by CEO and founder Nagesh Konduru, Banyan Cloud stands as a beacon of innovation in the realm of cloud security. Drawing inspiration from the resilient Banyan tree, which offers shelter and protection for many, Banyan Cloud mirrors this ethos by providing a comprehensive platform that secures business applications from inception to deployment across diverse global locations, including California’s renowned Silicon Valley, Bangalore in India, and Dubai’s bustling Internet City.

What sets Banyan Cloud apart is its holistic approach to security, underpinned by an agentless architecture that enables continuous monitoring and remediation. By aligning with international standards such as CIS and GDPR, Banyan Cloud ensures that organizations remain compliant while safeguarding their digital assets.

Moreover, the platform’s inclusion of incident management and FinOps capabilities underscores Banyan Cloud’s commitment to not just security, but also governance—a unique selling proposition that resonates strongly in today’s dynamic cybersecurity landscape. As cyber threats continue to evolve, Banyan Cloud remains steadfast in its mission to empower organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to proactively mitigate risks and safeguard their operations.

Nagesh Konduru, Founder & CEO, Banyan Cloud

LinkShadow introduces “ShadowGPT,” revolutionizing cybersecurity interaction at GISEC

GISEC, LinkShadow has demonstrated “ShadowGPT,” the latest addition to its intelligent NDR solutions portoflio, which aims to elevate user experience and to simplify the complexity of AI-based tools.

Through ShadowGPT, users have the capability to directly interact with LinkShadow, asking questions like, “Who are our riskiest users?” Instant responses, driven by AI, provide actionable insights in real-time. Going beyond Q&A, ShadowGPT enables users to delve into their cybersecurity landscape, pinpointing vulnerabilities and emerging threats.

“LinkShadow’s accolades from industry leaders underscore its status as a cybersecurity pioneer.

In a world where cyber-attacks are inevitable, LinkShadow’s ‘Cyber Mesh Platform integrates technologies seamlessly for comprehensive defense. With “ShadowGPT,” organizations stay ahead in cybersecurity, anticipating and mitigating threats proactively. This marks a pivotal moment in cybersecurity, bridging humanmachine interaction to safeguard organizations

with unprecedented precision. Welcome to the future of cybersecurity

Synology unveils tailored security solutions for MEA at GISEC 2024

Synology’s participation at GISEC showcased their comprehensive security solutions tailored for the MEA region, led by Joanne, Director of International Business. Their offerings spanned Identity Management Services for centralized user account security, Secure Data Storage featuring AES-256 encryption and WORM technology, and Data Backup and Disaster Recovery strategies to counter cyber threats proactively.

Synology’s approach extends beyond product features with a dedicated security incident response team, collaborating with global security entities and white hat hackers for zero-day response readiness. At GISEC, attendees sought seamless, compatible solutions, making Synology’s one-stop approach particularly appealing. Addressing the human factor in cybersecurity, Synology’s C2 Password service offers password management solutions, exemplifying their commitment to holistic security for organizations navigating the evolving cyber landscape.

Joanne Weng, Director of International Business Department, Synology

Fadi Sharaf El-Dean, Regional Sales Director, LinkShadow

intelligence,” said

Fadi Sharaf El Dean, Regional Sales Director, LinkShadow.

Spire Solutions innovates cloud security at GISEC with human-centric approach

Prashant Prasad, Director of Technology at Spire Solutions reflected on the bustling atmosphere of GISEC and the company’s innovative offerings tailored for the cloud domain. Introducing niche approaches like cloud incident response and the cloud resiliency model, Spire Solutions addresses the complexities of cloud environments, emphasizing the seamless integration of infrastructure and data backup.

Prasad highlighted the critical role of human involvement in cloud resilience, underscoring the importance of enablement, awareness, and education to strengthen security defenses. Spire Solutions advocates for ongoing training sessions, simulations, and assessments to empower teams in recognizing and mitigating cybersecurity risks effectively.

With a commitment to continuous

improvement and enabling their clients, Spire Solutions navigates the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity with dedication

and innovation, fostering quality conversations and unique interactions at GISEC.

Help AG discusses cybersecurity evolution and strategic focus

In an insightful interview, Nicolai, Chief Technology Officer of Help AG, shed light on the company’s evolution as the cybersecurity

arm of e& Enterprise, emphasizing their deeprooted focus on cybersecurity solutions since inception.

Nicolai discusses the pivotal role played by Help AG in enhancing cybersecurity readiness and resilience, particularly in the face of evolving threats and the global nature of cyber attacks. With a keen emphasis on delivering robust technical solutions, Help AG navigates the cybersecurity landscape by addressing client-specific needs and fostering partnerships with leading technology vendors.

Nicolai noted that the conversation has shifted from traditional technology discussions to outcomes-driven approaches, encompassing the management, operation, and monitoring of cybersecurity infrastructure.

As the company experiences significant growth in services-led business, Help AG remains at the forefront of tackling emerging challenges such as identity-based attacks and distributed denial-of-service incidents, while also exploring the implications of quantum computing and environmental sustainability in cybersecurity operations. Through intelligent automation and forward-thinking strategies, Help AG continues to empower organizations in safeguarding their digital assets and staying ahead of cybersecurity threats.

Nicolai Solling, Chief Technology Officer at Help AG Middle East

Prasanth Prasad, Director of Technology, Spire Solutions

Check Point launches cloud-delivered security solutions and partner program enhancements at GISEC 2024

Prashanth Menon, leading the channels division at Check Point UAE, emphasized the significance of GISEC as a pivotal event for Check Point each year. This year, Check Point introduced several new aspects, starting with an enhanced partner program designed to elevate the partner experience.

Check Point unveiled a range of new products, with a strong focus on AI-powered and Cloud-delivered solutions. These innovations are integral to the solutions Check Point has launched in 2024, showcasing the company’s commitment to cutting-edge technologies. The response at GISEC has been overwhelmingly positive, with partners and customers flocking to the Check Point booth to explore these innovative solutions.

Check Point’s evolution is evident, moving beyond its traditional image as a firewall company to offer a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions. These include email security, endpoint security, Cloud security, mobile security, and a unified management solution called Infinity. Infinity provides

customers and partners with a consolidated view of their infrastructure across networks, endpoints, mobile devices, and the Cloud.

One of the highlights of Check Point’s showcase at GISEC is the launch of Infinity’s unified management portal in the UAE. This development ensures that customer data remains within the boundaries of the UAE, adhering to the country’s data privacy regulations.

Enhancements to Check Point’s partner program include free certifications, a simplified tier model with four partnership levels, transparent pricing, and deal registration incentives for both new business and renewals. This renewed focus on partner enablement and support underscores Check Point’s commitment to collaborative and dignified business practices.

Check Point’s commitment to innovation and partnership excellence continues to drive its success, as evidenced by its strong presence and positive reception at JISEC 2024. For more information about Check Point’s cybersecurity solutions, visit their booth at JISEC or contact them directly.

Qbilon emphasizes transformative potential following acquisition by Paessler at GISEC 2024

Thomas Driesen, co-founder of Qbilon, highlighted the company’s transformative software solution after their recent acquisition by Paessler. With a strong track record of providing IT landscape discovery services to larger enterprises, Qbilon’s integration into Pessler’s ecosystem has significantly enhanced their ability to offer comprehensive solutions.

Qbilon’s software simplifies the complex task of understanding and managing sprawling IT infrastructures. It seamlessly integrates data from on-premises environments and major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and GCP, providing organizations with a unified view of their IT environment.

Driesen emphasized the collaborative efforts with trusted distributors like Isaac, ensuring widespread accessibility and support for Qbilon’s offerings. At GISEC 2024, the response from

prospects has been overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the relevance and value of Qbilon’s approach to IT landscape management.

In essence, Qbilon presents itself as the go-to solution for enterprises seeking a holistic view of their IT environment. It empowers organizations to proactively monitor, secure, and optimize their operations. Furthermore, by complementing Qbilon with PRTG, organizations can enhance their monitoring capabilities, ensuring comprehensive oversight and control.

Through strategic integration and a commitment to innovation, Qbilon and PRTG are positioned as formidable allies in navigating the complexities of modern IT infrastructure. Their combined offering provides organizations with the tools they need to succeed in today’s digital landscape.

Thomas Driessen, Co-founder of Qbilon

Prashant Menon, Channel LeaderCheck Point Software Technologies

GCC Security Symposium and CISO Awards 2024 concludes successfully in Qatar

The GCC Security Symposium and CISO Awards 2024 were held successfully on April 22nd at the Grand Regency Doha Trademark Collection by Wyndham in Qatar. It gathered industry experts, thought leaders, and professionals in

cybersecurity and risk management.

Kicking off the event, Anushree Dixit, Global Head of Content and Strategic Alliances at GEC Media Group, delivered the welcome keynote, setting the stage for insightful discussions and presentations. Abdus Salaam, from the Global CISO Forum, followed with the opening keynote,

emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital landscape.

EfficientIP presented the vendor keynote, focusing on “Securing the invisible: Fortifying DNS against evolving threats,” with Racha Abdallah, Customer Solutions Architect, providing valuable insights into DNS security.

The symposium featured engaging panel discussions on topics such as fraud detection and prevention, implementing operational resilience, the impact of AI and digitalization on BCM and risk management, and busting the myth of zero trust. Expert panelists from leading organizations such as Qatar University, Qatar Islamic Bank, Vodafone, and others shared valuable insights and best practices.

Algosec delivered the vendor keynote, presented by Gurinder Singh, Regional Sales Engineer, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the latest technologies and solutions in the field.

The event also recognized excellence in cybersecurity with the Future Security Leaders Awards, the GCF Excellence Awards, and the CISO Awards 2024, honoring outstanding

contributions and achievements in the industry.

Anushree remarked, “The event provided a platform for meaningful discussions, knowledge sharing, and recognition of excellence in cybersecurity.”

The symposium concluded with closing notes, reflecting on key takeaways, and looking forward to future collaborations and advancements in the field.

Riyadh hosts successful GCC Security Symposium and CISO Awards

The GCC Security Symposium and CISO Awards 2024, hosted at the Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya hotel in KSA on April 18th, rallied together cybersecurity experts, thought leaders, and professionals from across the kingdom. The Security Symposium showcased the

latest trends and concerns in cybersecurity, highlighting the commitment and dedication of Saudi Arabia’s cybersecurity community in safeguarding businesses, infrastructure, and individuals from cyber risks.

Anushree Dixit, Global Head of Content & Strategic Alliance at GEC Media Group, welcomed attendees and keynote speakers,

sharing the vision and objectives of the GCC Security Symposium as an ideal platform to gain exceptional knowledge on how an agile BCM plan will bring increased flexibility and agility to every organization. This was followed by an enlightening opening keynote by Mohammad Manashi, Co-Founder of CAAS, setting the stage for the day’s discussions

One notable highlight of the event was the vendor keynote address delivered by Tarek Kuzbari, Regional Director of Picus Security. His presentation titled “Top Ten ATT&CK Techniques: The Rise of ‘Hunter-Killer’ Malware” provided valuable insights into emerging cyber threats.

The symposium also included engaging panel discussions on topics such as SIEM and Response Management, moderated by Auoob Aldakael, Director of Risk Management at government sector, and a session on “Developing and maintaining

an ideal IAM/PAM role model,” moderated by Aatif Khan, Advisor CISO, Saudi government entity. Distinguished panelists shared their expertise and experiences in cybersecurity.

James Sherlow, Director of Solution Engineering, EMEA, Cequence Security, delivered an insightful presentation on “New Trends of Successful Cyber Attacks & Data Breaches,” highlighting the evolving nature of cyber threats and the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures.

The partners for the GCC Security

Symposium KSA edition included AmiViz, Spire Solutions, F9 Infotech, Secureworks, Algosec, Check Point, Cequence, Picus Security, Safe Decision, Eviden, Itqan, Paessler, Seclore, Teksalah, Visiontech, 971 Cyber Security, Finesse, Deep Algorithms, Digital Track, and Finance World Magazine.

The event concluded with the presentation of the Future Security Leaders Awards, the BCM & Risk Management Awards, and the highly anticipated CISO Awards 2024, recognizing and celebrating excellence in the field of cybersecurity.

GCC Security Symposium and CISO Awards 2024 wraps up in Pakistan with success

The GCC Security Symposium and CISO Awards 2024, held at the ITCN Expo in Pakistan on April 18th, concluded successfully. The symposium brought together cybersecurity experts, thought leaders, and professionals from

across the country. It aimed to showcase the latest trends and concerns in cybersecurity, underscoring the commitment and dedication of Pakistan’s cybersecurity community to protecting businesses and infrastructure.

The event was set in motion with a warm welcome from Fahad Ahmed, the Master of

Ceremony. This was followed by impactful speeches from Dr. Erdal Ozakaya, President of the Global CISO Forum, and Abdul Qadir, Country Ambassador of the Global CISO Forum. Their insightful addresses laid the foundation for the engaging discussions that followed.

ITCN CEO Umair Nizam delivered a compelling speech, highlighting the crucial role of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. The Chief Guest further emphasized the necessity for collaboration and innovation in the cybersecurity field. The World CISO Awards were then distributed, recognizing outstanding achievements in cybersecurity. A panel discussion, titled “Everywhere Cybersecure - for the new age enterprises”, delved into the pressing cybersecurity

challenges and innovative solutions faced by five CIOs/CISOs.

Zohaib Khan, Chairman of P@SHA, highlighted the role of cybersecurity in Pakistan’s digital transformation in his speech. Keynote speeches by sponsors Mohsin Ali, Adnan Siddiqui, and Salman Popatya followed, shedding light on the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity.

The partners for the GCC Security Symposium KSA edition included AmiViz,

Spire Solutions, F9 Infotech, Secureworks, Algosec, Check Point, Cequence, Picus Security, Safe Decision, Eviden, Itqan, Paessler, Seclore, Teksalah, Visiontech, 971 Cyber Security, Finesse, Deep Algorithms, Digital Track, and Finance World Magazine.

The event concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks by Dr.Erdal, expressing gratitude to the sponsors, speakers, and attendees for their participation and contribution to the event’s success.

Will AI become the new strategic partner for procurement?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are crowding global, regional and local news cycles and conversations across all industries, in a manner reminiscent of the launch of the World Wide Web in the 1990s. The introduction of a new generative technology that can be used in nearly every industry and business has stirred up unprecedented interest among IT leaders and the C-suite.

AI in procurement boosts efficiency by handling administrative tasks, letting professionals focus on strategy. As smart buying emerges, leaders aim to enhance operations and cut costs. Integrating AI is key for revenue growth and cost reduction, with many expecting AI to impact their bottom line in 2024. However, questions linger about AI’s real-world performance and ethics, requiring careful IT system review before implementation.

The use cases for AI in procurement

AI revolutionizes procurement by automating tasks like document generation and data analysis, boosting efficiency and accuracy while cutting costs. It streamlines supplier discovery and evaluation, using databases and metrics to recommend suppliers effectively. AI accelerates the creation and analysis of procurement documents, enhancing sourcing accuracy. Additionally, AI helps monitor contract performance and compliance, freeing professionals for strategic tasks. Integrating AI and large language models offers insights into trends and supplier performance, supporting datadriven decisions and highlighting the need

for emotional intelligence in procurement. However, human skills in negotiation and relationship building remain crucial for successful outcomes, requiring a balance between AI and human intelligence with proper training and procedures.

The barriers to AI integration

But new technologies always bring questions, fears, and misconceptions – and AI is no different. Can we trust the process? Will an outcome follow the right protocol, regulations, and ethical practices? Currently, fewer than half of people are willing to trust AI systems; yet trust must be built up before we can capitalise on AI-driven recommendations.

AI will enhance, not replace, human jobs in procurement, with an estimated $320 billion impact in the Middle East by 2030. However, leaders must be wary of biases and inaccuracies in AI models, as poor data quality can lead to biased decisions and ethical concerns, impacting supplier relations and trust in the supply chain.

Paving the way for AI success in procurement to effectively deploy AI in procurement, teams must first ensure data accuracy and bias minimization through robust validation and cleansing processes. Internal processes should be optimized for AI to track, analyze, and provide insights autonomously. AI has the potential to revolutionize procurement, improving negotiations, predicting trends, and supporting sustainability. Procurement professionals will likely shift to more strategic roles with AI-driven insights, but success hinges on starting with the right processes and setup.

Craig Hendry, Principal and Director of Engineering at Efficio

Spoofing Shein for credential harvesting

Jeremy Fuchs, Cybersecurity Researcher Analyst Check Point Software LTD

Shein is one of the most popular shopping apps in the world. In fact, it’s the second most downloaded shopping app globally, with over 251 million downloads.

The e-commerce platform is Googled more frequently than major brands like Nike and adidas.

Shein gained popularity for its inexpensive clothing and low prices. However, the company has faced significant criticism for its poor human rights record.

Additionally, according to a TIME report, Shein has been exploited by scammers in various ways, including the use of fake gift cards on Instagram and counterfeit websites.

That brings us to the focus of today’s report. Researchers from Harmony Email will discuss how hackers are impersonating Shein in an effort to steal user credentials. Over the last month, they have identified more than 1,000 of these fraudulent emails.

Email Example

The email arrives with a tempting subject line:

“Order Verification SHEIN” – claiming to be from Shein customer service. But a closer look reveals a red flag – the sender’s email address doesn’t match Shein’s official one.

The email excitedly announces you’ve received a mystery box from Shein. However, the included link won’t bring you a surprise gift; it leads to a fake website designed to steal your personal information (a credential harvesting site). This phishing attempt is quite transparent. It preys on your excitement by claiming you’ve won a prize and uses the trusted brand name “Shein” to gain your trust. However, a vigilant user can easily spot the scam: check the sender’s email address (it shouldn’t be random letters) and verify that any links lead to legitimate Shein webpages.

Techniques

Just like other phishing attempts, scammers are trying to capitalize on popular brands and current trends to trick you. This time, they’re using Shein.

There are several red flags that this email isn’t legitimate. First, there’s a

strong sense of urgency surrounding the “mystery box” offer, which is designed to create excitement and pressure you into clicking.

Another clue? The email address itself is a jumble of random letters, not a recognizable Shein address. You won’t find any Shein branding or logos in the email either. Finally, the link in the email won’t take you to an official Shein webpage, but to a fraudulent website designed to steal your information.

Over the last month, we’ve seen over 1,000 of these attacks.

l Make sure you don’t click on links from websites whose address isn’t the official one and check the email’s source.

l Check the address of the website and the sender’s name for spelling and punctuation errors on websites that look real.

l Ensure the email is free of spelling errors. Pay attention to the language in the email: are you expecting to be addressed in this language by your shipping company?

App privacy vs. convenience

Following the GISEC event at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Jonathan L. Hasson and Lara Varjabedian, serial entrepreneurs and co-founders of UBQT, delved deeper into their vision and strategy behind the creation of their groundbreaking app. They shared insights on the key aspect, which is to respect the privacy of their users and make navigation on the tool very easy.

A massive issue with most of today’s apps is their lack of concern for privacy and users’ information. The UBQT team has made it a priority to provide multiple options to users depending on what they feel comfortable sharing. It includes push notifications, and in order to best utilize the application, users need to activate sync with their calendars and contacts and share their location. This is not to inundate users with irrelevant information but to notify them when someone is nearby and share reminders for confirmed catch-ups.

“Data is often used to send curated targeted ads to users. At UBQT, we wish to

avoid all that noise, including advertising. We are not here to sell you something; our mission is to keep the noise out of the app, ensure a seamless experience, and ultimately enable you to reconnect with your tribe,” said Jonathan Hasson, co-founder and CEO of UBQT.

Jonathan and Lara have one clear goal: to help people reconnect in real life. That’s why, even though the initial connection is made through the app, the idea is to spend as little time as possible on it. Users can only share status and send calendar invite suggestions to their contacts; their network is private to them with sub-categories that they can create, such as ‘family,’ ‘friends,’ and more. Bombarding the platform with photos, videos, and other content is not possible.

Besides helping with getting straight to the point of setting up a catch-up, the app has another positive outcome: to help people overcome loneliness. Individuals often connect online with many people, many of whom they don’t even know personally, but it often leads

nowhere, ending up as a waste of time and mentally draining. UBQT encourages people to put the social aspect back at the center of their social interactions, making it very convenient to fill a calendar of catch-ups with contacts from various backgrounds (work or personal).

In 2024, discussions on artificial intelligence and new technology will undoubtedly increase as people navigate the capabilities and associated risks of these innovations. UBQT’s technology is deeply rooted in innovation and the positive contributions it brings. The company plans to continuously improve its features and offer more options tailored to each user’s needs; this may include elements of gamification as well as travel tech features, always in line with the philosophy of digital minimalism.

UBQT’s mission is to maintain transparency in its operations and communication, and the team is resolute in its commitment not to sell users’ data.

“People should have full visibility and control over how their data is used, “ Jonathan concluded.

Half of cyber pros find formal education useless in current job: Kaspersky study

Amid acute shortages of cybersecurity professionals, acting information security (InfoSec) experts are questioning the relevance of the formal education they received, Kaspersky’s new global research shows. The survey revealed that one in two cybersecurity professionals were not able to confirm the usefulness of their academic training when it came to helping them in their role. As a result, these experts have to invest their resources in further training to tackle the ever-evolving threat landscape and keep up with industry developments.

Many InfoSec experts point out that the education system is detached from the realities of cybersecurity, resulting in a lack of applicability when it comes to real-life work experience: almost every other professional believes the knowledge taught in formal education was somewhat (14%), slightly (13%) useful or of no use at all (24%) when it came to fulfilling their job duties.

While one issue is the quality and relevance of

believe that the availability of cybersecurity or information security courses in formal higher education is either ‘poor,’ or ‘very poor.’ Among professionals with 2-5-years of experience, this figure soars to more than 80%.

educational programs, another is the availability of cybersecurity and InfoSec training per se. For instance, half of current cybersecurity experts

“Cybersecurity education is facing certain challenges when it comes to keeping up with developments in the cybersecurity industry,” comments Evgeniya Russkikh, Head of Cybersecurity Education at Kaspersky. “The rapidly evolving nature of cyber threats means that educational programs often struggle to ensure their content is up to date, leaving cybersecurity professionals with knowledge gaps. At Kaspersky, we help universities overcome these challenges and ensure continual learning and adaptation for young professionals by integrating the leading expertise of our industry experts into educational curriculums so that they combine practical hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge.”

Coupa launches new data center in the UAE

Coupa inaugurated its first Middle East data center in Dubai, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

Coupa’s new data center in the UAE demonstrates its commitment to invest in the region and provide enhanced services for clients across the Middle East. This physical presence marks a milestone for Coupa, enabling better service for customers, especially in the public and financial sectors.

Shehab Shoukry, Vice President & General Manager MENA at Coupa, said, “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our first data center in the Middle East. This investment reflects our commitment to the region and our ongoing efforts to provide best-in-class services to our customers.”

Key benefits of the new data center for businesses include:

l Improved Service Reliability and Efficiency: Ensures uninterrupted access to Coupa’s

AI-driven platform.

l Compliance with Local Data Regulations: Hosts data locally to comply with data sovereignty regulations, especially for industries like banking, financial services, and government.

l Enhanced Data Security: Bolsters data security measures to safeguard sensitive information and mitigate cybersecurity risks.

l Local Support and Responsiveness: Provides localized support for quicker response times, demonstrating Coupa’s adaptability to diverse market needs.

l “With the new data centre in place, we will continue driving innovation across our AI driven platform to help organizations across the UAE operate smarter and grow faster. Coupa’s innovative AI guides employees to make informed decisions and accelerate profitable outcomes and growth opportunities,” added Shoukry.

Shehab Shoukry, Vice President & General Manager MENA at Coupa

Nozomi Networks launches first OT and IoT security SaaS platform in the UAE

Nozomi Networks has expanded its global cloud footprint with new Vantage region in UAE, demonstrating commitment to the region.

Nozomi Vantage is a cloud-based cybersecurity management platform that provides critical infrastructure operators and cybersecurity teams with unified OT/IoT security monitoring and risk management across the Nozomi cybersecurity platform. Through a single pane of glass, Vantage powers asset management, vulnerability assessment, and threat detection and response.

A valuable resource in supporting the UAE’s Cyber Security Strategy to accelerate digital transformation and smarty city initiatives, Vantage delivers the unmatched security and visibility expected from Nozomi Networks, with the addition of unlimited scalability, powered by SaaS. It makes it possible to protect any number of OT, IoT, IT, edge and cloud assets, located

anywhere, with a single platform.

Bachir Moussa, Nozomi’s Regional Vice President for MEA. “Nozomi Networks has always been

committed to strengthening critical infrastructure cybersecurity in the Middle East and this new Vantage region is a testament to that commitment.”

ServiceNow launches Now platform in Arabic in latest release

ServiceNow has announced the availability of its Now Platform in Arabic with the Washington D.C. release.

Now companies in all regions will be able to support Arabic end-users out of the box, including the mobile experience, all dashboard interactions and end-user engagements available on the platform to drive business

transformations in customer experience as well as employee experience modules like HR Service Deliver, Workplace Service Delivery, Customer Service Management and Public Sector Digital Services.

“Experience is at the core of the Now Platform, and this means not only providing modules and a feature set that enable organizations to

deliver exceptional customer and employee experiences, but also ensuring that users have the ability to navigate the platform in their native language,” said, Fares Asadi, Director – Solution Consulting MEA, ServiceNow

Scaling the impact of generative AI across the enterprise

ServiceNow’s Washington D.C. platform release includes new capabilities for its generative AI (GenAI) leadership. These enhancements improve Now Assist GenAI experiences, offering responsible, intelligent automation within the ServiceNow platform. Now available, the updates include Now Assist for IT Operations Management (ITOM) AIOps, Virtual Agent enhancements, and Impact AI Accelerators. These advancements highlight ServiceNow’s dedication to AI innovation, enhancing productivity and accelerating value from AI investments.

Bachir Moussa, Regional VP MEA, Nozomi Networks

Oracle and NVIDIA to deliver sovereign AI worldwide

Oracle and NVIDIA are teaming up to provide AI solutions globally. Oracle’s distributed cloud, AI infrastructure, and generative AI services, along with NVIDIA’s accelerated computing and generative AI software, are empowering governments and businesses to deploy AI factories.

These AI factories can run cloud services locally, and within a country’s or organization’s secure premises with a range of operational controls, supporting sovereign goals of diversifying and boosting economic growth.

“As AI reshapes business, industry, and policy around the world, countries and organizations need to strengthen their digital sovereignty in order to protect their most valuable data,” said Safra Catz, CEO of Oracle.”

“In an era where innovation will be driven by generative AI, data sovereignty is a cultural and economic imperative,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA.”

Saudi Investment Ministry and Endava sign MoU to boost kingdom’s digital growth

Saudi Investment Ministry and Endava collaborate to drive Saudi Vision 2030’s digital transformation. The MoU aims to bring Endava’s world-class engineering and industry expertise to Saudi organizations, accelerating their digital advancement.

Endava’s MoU with MISA strengthens its commitment to Saudi Arabia, focusing on key sectors like Government, Banking, Energy, Telecom, and Retail. The partnership aligns with the Saudi government’s goal of attracting global investments. Endava’s expertise will help Saudi enterprises innovate and compete globally, benefiting citizens. Together with MISA, Endava will accelerate digital transformation, introduce best practices, and enhance the technology talent pool in the Kingdom.

“Our partnership with them is further validation of Endava’s unwavering commitment to Saudi Arabia and its people. With our mission of making a profound and lasting positive impact on the societies and economies which we serve,

David Boast, Managing Director - MENA, Endava.

such close collaboration with leading government entities is fundamental to our ambitions,” said

Dataiku, PwC bring AI solutions to regulated industries

Dataiku and PwC have joined forces to improve data and AI decisions in regulated industries. The alliance combines PwC’s AI, Cloud, Data, and Analytics expertise with Dataiku’s advanced analytics and AI capabilities, including Generative AI. Organizations can benefit from Dataiku’s centralized and governed AI platform and PwC’s services, including its Responsible AI Framework, to meet evolving AI needs.

Highly regulated industries like finance and energy aim to leverage AI while managing risks and evaluating cost-benefit ratios. The alliance between Dataiku and PwC provides a foundation for innovation and risk management, as recognized by Dataiku’s leadership in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide AI Governance Platforms 2023 Vendor Assessment and PwC’s leadership in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Artificial Intelligence Services

2023 Vendor Assessment. The partnership delivers responsible and scalable AI deployments, meeting strict compliance and governance standards in these sectors.

“The goal of this partnership is to create a wider impact that bridges the gap between business acumen and technical expertise,” said David Tharp, SVP of ecosystems and alliances at Dataiku. “By democratizing AI, it becomes a tool for empowerment across the entire workforce.”

“Generative AI provides a significant opportunity for firms to drive a more agile and informed technological transformation,” declared Peter El Khoury, Digital Partner at PwC. “Leveraging Dataiku’s AI platform, which incorporates Generative AI technologies, and our deep-seated cross- sector expertise, our alliance enables us to deliver solutions that not only meet compliance demands but institute a path for tomorrow’s innovations.”

Microsoft launches Copilot Pro to enhance user experience in the Middle East

Microsoft has expanded its Copilot Pro subscription in the Middle East to boost productivity and creativity. The expansion aligns with Microsoft’s mission to empower every person globally. Copilot Pro is now accessible in all 222 countries where Copilot was available.

Copilot Pro is the advanced version of Microsoft’s Copilot platform, offering priority access to the latest OpenAI models like GPT-4 and GPT-4 Turbo. Users can create custom Copilot GPTs, generate unique images, and get 100 daily boosts in Microsoft Designer.

Copilot Pro expands to free Microsoft 365 web apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, without needing an extra subscription. Desktop access for PC and Mac still requires a Microsoft 365 Personal or Family subscription.

Zubin Chagpar, Senior Director and Business Group Leader, Modern Work and Surface Devices, at Microsoft CEMA, said, “From clearing up overflowing inboxes to catching up on missed meetings, finishing complicated reports, and even suggesting recipes to make a delicious dinner,

Peter El Khoury, Digital Partner at PwC

Zubin Chagpar, Senior Director and Business Group Leader, Modern Work and Surface Devices, at Microsoft CEMA

Rick Scurfield joins VAST data as chief revenue officer

VAST Data has appointed Rick Scurfield as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), a key move in its mission to launch a data platform tailored for the AI era. In his new role, Scurfield will help VAST Data make data more meaningful for organizations worldwide, unlocking radical intelligence. Scurfield, a seasoned sales executive, brings extensive experience, having driven sales growth and transformed go-tomarket strategies during his tenure at NetApp.

As the new CRO of VAST Data, Scurfield will oversee the company’s global sales strategy, aiming to expand market share and foster customer relationships across new industries and use cases. His expertise in overseeing sales operations, customer engagements and business development will be invaluable in propelling VAST’s success.

Renen Hallak, CEO and co-founder of VAST Data. “We are confident that he will help

shape VAST’s sales organization and strategy to further our mission of providing the end-to-

end operating system for AI and deep learning deployments to businesses worldwide.”

Anomali unveils latest innovation for UAE customers

Anomali, a prominent AI-Powered Security Operations Platform, unveiled its latest innovation aimed at assisting UAE customers in implementing a distinctive multi-lingual Copilot. This Copilot is designed to navigate modern security analytics solutions, offering impressive speed, scalability, and performance enhancements, all while reducing costs.

Anomali is helping some of the largest enterprise customers in the world by consolidating and replacing their full stack of legacy security analytics technology, including ETL, SIEM, NG SIEM, XDR, SOAR and TIP.

As an illustration, the company recently helped a global financial institution install Anomali Copilot and replace their legacy security analytics while reducing their cost from $10M to $5M per annum. Together with progressive global customers, Anomali is revolutionizing a different way of managing security.

As part of a global “Be Different” roadshow and given the importance of the UAE to the company’s business, Anomali CEO, Dr. Ahmed Rubaie is traveling from California and will be hosting a celebration event in Dubai (May 1) with our critical partner StarLink, an Infinigate Group Company. Dr. Rubaie along

Dr. Ahmed Rubaie,

CEO,Anomali

with our local executive team and critical partners, will engage key stakeholders and security executives from across the oil and gas, banking, government, utilities, and telco sectors.

“We are committed to helping the UAE in its continued and impressive emphasis on

digitizing the way of life and on optimizing the latest innovation in artificial intelligence for more productivity. With the region’s geopolitical significance and swift digitization, there’s an urgent need for advanced security measures. Anomali is excited to unveil a first in market “different” way of managing security operations,” said Dr. Ahmed Rubaie, CEO of Anomali. “Our continued investment in the UAE is a proactive step towards fortifying critical infrastructure, businesses, and individuals against escalating cybersecurity risks.”

Dr. Rubaie continued, “In 2024, security leaders must think differently and pivot towards more automation and more advanced security analytics to keep up with the demand of business and the macro. Anomali’s innovative approach places analysts at the forefront, offering unparalleled performance, user-friendly interfaces, and superior outcomes in protecting and driving their business — all at a fraction of the legacy costs. Given our cloud native DNA, we are well positioned to help our great customers in the UAE in their cloud migration journey and plan to invest accordingly.”

SentinelOne revolutionizes cybersecurity with Purple AI

SentinelOne introduced the first generative AI-powered platform for cybersecurity a year ago. Now, they’re breaking new ground with Purple AI, an AI security analyst that simplifies and accelerates threat hunting, investigations, and response, empowering security teams to save time and money.

“The average enterprise security team receives north of 1,000 alerts per day that require investigation. The same teams must also proactively hunt for threats that evade detection. They are overworked and understaffed and in dire need of help to keep pace,” said Ric Smith, Chief Product and Technology Officer, SentinelOne. “With Purple AI, SentinelOne is delivering the industry’s most advanced GenAI security technology to help detect threats earlier, respond faster, and stay ahead of attacks in an efficient, scalable way.”

Early adopters of Purple AI report executing hunts 80 percent faster, and innovative companies are already taking advantage of this technology to empower their security teams and stay ahead of threats.

“The security insights provided by Purple

Smith, Chief Product and Technology Officer, SentinelOne

AI have surpassed anything PruittHealth had before,” said Richard Bailey, SVP IT, PruittHealth Connect Inc. “PurpleAI assists in identifying weaknesses and vulnerabilities, thus bolstering PruittHealth’s overall security. Additionally, it enhances accuracy and reduces human error in data queries, allowing more time for other tasks.”

Far beyond a security chatbot or console search box, Purple AI is an AI-powered security analyst that radically simplifies threat hunting and investigations by translating natural language into structured queries, automatically querying native and partner data, intelligently summarizing results and suggesting follow-on queries in natural language and saving investigations in collaborative notebooks. With

Purple AI, security teams can:

l Simplify complex queries and streamline investigations with natural language translations.

Purple AI is the only AI security analyst that supports the Open Cybersecurity Schema Framework, so analysts have a single normalized view of native and partner data.

l Find and mitigate hidden risk across their environment with pre-populated Purple AI Threat Hunting Quick Starts to launch investigations with a single click.

l Drive down mean time to respond and time to investigate with suggested next queries and intelligent summarized results in natural language.

l Easily collaborate with shared, exportable investigation notebooks and autogenerated emails.

With Purple AI, security teams can save time, increase visibility, and maximize resources, and enterprises of all sizes, across industries, are tapping its power to streamline and enhance their security operations and bolster their defenses.

Six in 10 businesses struggle with cyber risk management, reveals new CIO report

Barracuda Networks, a top cloud security provider, has released the CIO report “Leading your business through cyber risk.” It delves into governance challenges in managing cyber risk and enhancing resilience, offering tools like a checklist template developed with Barracuda’s IT and security leaders to guide companies.

Leveraging data from the international Cybernomics 101 study, the report assesses how challenges relating to security policies, management support, third-party access, and supply chains can undermine a company’s ability to withstand and respond to cyberattacks.

Among other things, the findings show that many organisations find it hard to implement company-wide security policies such as authentication measures and access controls. Half (49%) of the smaller to mid-sized

companies surveyed listed this as one of their top two governance challenges. Further, just over a third (35%) of the smaller companies worry that senior management doesn’t see cyberattacks as a significant risk, while the larger companies are most likely to struggle with a lack of budget (38%) and skilled

professionals (35%).

Many organisations have concerns about a lack of security and control over the supply chain and visibility into third parties with access to sensitive or confidential data. Around one in 10 doesn’t have an incident response plan to turn to in the event of a successful breach.

“For many businesses today, a security incident of some kind is almost inevitable,” said Siroui Mushegian, CIO of Barracuda Networks. “What matters is how you prepare for, withstand, respond to, and recover from the incident. This is cyber resilience. Advanced,defense-in-depth security solutions will take you most of the way there, but success also depends on security governance — the policies and programs, leadership, and more that enable you to manage risk.

Ric

Siroui Mushegian, CIO, Barracuda

Kodak Alaris signs Global Service & Solution as authorized service provider in Algeria

Kodak Alaris has signed an Authorized Service Provider (ASP) agreement with GLOBAL SERVICE & SOLUTION, a reputable service provider based in Algeria. This partnership underscores Kodak Alaris’ dedication to delivering exceptional service and support to its customers in the region.

Under this agreement, GLOBAL SERVICE & SOLUTION will serve as an authorized provider of maintenance, repair, and support services for Kodak Alaris’ comprehensive portfolio of information capture and intelligent document processing solutions. With a deep understanding of the local market and a dedication to customer satisfaction, GLOBAL SERVICE & SOLUTION is poised to deliver unparalleled service quality and efficiency to Kodak Alaris customers across Algeria.

“Together with GLOBAL SERVICE & SOLUTION, we are excited to expand our service capabilities

in Algeria,” said Elias Mouchantaf, General Manager, MEITA& region, Kodak Alaris. “Their expertise and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our values, ensuring that our customers receive the highest level of support for their document capture solutions.”

This partnership marks a significant

milestone for both companies, as they join forces to enhance the accessibility and reliability of Kodak Alaris’ products and services in Algeria.

Through this collaboration, customers can expect expedited response times, enhanced technical expertise, and a seamless service experience.

“Together with Kodak Alaris, we are dedicated to providing best-in-class service to our customers in Algeria,” said Sidahmed Hadjersi, General Manager of GLOBAL SERVICE & SOLUTION. “By combining our local insights with Kodak Alaris’ industryleading technology, we aim to exceed customer expectations and drive mutual success in the region.”

Kodak Alaris remains committed to delivering innovative document processing and information management solutions and exceptional service to customers worldwide.

PROVEN Consult and Sadq partner for cutting-edge solutions

PROVEN Consult and Sadq, the top digital signature company in saudi arabia, signed an MoU for collaboration. The agreement, signed by Hilel Baroud, CEO of PROVEN Consult, and Dr. Abdulla Allahuo, signifies the start of a partnership to deliver cutting-edge solutions to clients.

Through this partnership, PROVEN Consult and Sadq are committed to enhancing the client experience by offering access to Sadq’s seamless e-signature solution. This integration will streamline document signing processes, ultimately boosting efficiency and productivity for clients across various industries.

PROVEN Consult is enhancing its offerings by integrating Sanad.ai Arabic OCR technology into its joint solutions with Sadq. This tool, known for its accurate and efficient text extraction, will further enhance the capabilities of the collaborative solutions.

Hilel Baroud, CEO PROVEN Consult. “This collaboration underscores our dedication to providing innovative and comprehensive

solutions to address the diverse needs of our clients.”

The partnership between PROVEN Consult and Sadq reflects a shared vision of leveraging

technology to empower businesses and enhance operational efficiency. Both parties are committed to leveraging their expertise and resources to deliver unparalleled value to clients.

Dr. Abdullah Allahuo, Co-Founder and CEO, Sadq and Hilel Baroud, CEO PROVEN Consult

Elias Mouchantaf, General Manager, MEITA& region, Kodak Alaris

University of Doha for Science and Technology partners with RIPE NCC

UDST’s College of Computing and Information Technology partnered with RIPE NCC to enhance Internet governance and infrastructure education. The collaboration includes sharing expertise and resources between RIPE NCC experts and UDST’s CCIT faculty to benefit students.

The partnership provides CCIT students access to RIPE NCC’s extensive resources, including e-learning courses in the RIPE NCC Academy, webinars, in-person workshops, and certification programs focused on advanced Internet technologies. This initiative is part of CCIT’s strategy to update its curriculum to address the demands of the digital age, with a focus on Internet infrastructure and governance.

Dr. Zakaria Maamar, Dean of the College of Computing and Information Technology at UDST, underscored the commitment to continuing efforts to provide students with the latest skills, competencies, and knowledge in

Internet networking technology.”

Dr. Chafic Chaya, the RIPE NCC Regional Manager for Public Policy and Government Affairs, said, “Today, this collaboration with UDST’s College of Computing and Information Technology contributes to our organisation’s standing as a trusted player in education and development in the Internet sector.” two days, with flexibility to set the prayer time calculation according to their

Siemon wins 2023 TIA top 5% star award

Siemon has been recognised as a top 5% 2023 Star Award winner in the categories of the most engaged individual and most engaged company by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), the leading ANSI-accredited standards development body for the Information and Communication Technologies Industry (ICT). Since 2021, the TIA Star Awards have recognised the association’s most active individuals and companies for their contributions to the advancement of TIA and industry objectives and initiatives. John Siemon, chief technology officer and chief operations officer at Siemon was recognised in the top 5% for the individual category. John is a licensed Professional Engineer with a distinguished career spanning decades and exemplifies the spirit of this award. As a named inventor on over 50 patents in the field of ICT, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation and progress. John’s leadership extends beyond Siemon, actively contributing to industry organisations like TIA, BICSI, and ANSI. Notably, he received the Astin-Polk International Standards Medal for his dedication to promoting

preferred Islamic convention.

Islam Abdul Karim, General Manager, Yango GCC, said, “The introduction of the new mode for drivers, permanent beyond the Ramadan period, is a step forward in our ongoing effort to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for partners’ drivers. It enriches their work-life balance, blending advanced technology with local customs and practices.”

John Siemon, Chief Technology Officer & Chief Operating Officer

international standards development.

“I am humbled to be recognised as a top 5% Most Engaged Individual by TIA“, says John Siemon. „This award belongs to the entire Siemon team, whose tireless efforts contribute toshaping the future of the ICT industry. Collaboration and standards development are crucial for ensuring interoperability and driving innovation, and I am proud to be a part of this collective effort.”

Siemon’s commitment to standards

development extends across various TIA committees, including those focused on cabling infrastructure, data centres, and intelligent buildings. The company actively participates in shaping industry standards that ensure interoperability, reliability, and sustainability for future generations of networking technologies worldwide. This recognition by TIA underscores Siemon’s unwavering dedication to ICT industry standards and its commitment to shaping the future of the telecommunications landscape.

Integrate Middle East 2024 to highlight digital signage systems

Integrate Middle East 2024, MENA’s top Pro AV and media tech expo, will highlight cutting-edge digital signage systems, pivotal for the region’s Pro-AV market. Co-located with CABSAT, the event runs from May 21-23, 2024, at Dubai World Trade Centre.

According to the Data Bridge Market Research*, the global Pro AV market was valued at USD 3.2 billion in 2021. The market is projected to grow at a compound annual

growth rate (CAGR) of 12 per cent to reach USD 7.92 billion by 2029. One of the key drivers of this growth forecast in this market is the rapid expansion of digital signage systems, a digital installation that displays video or multimedia content for informational or advertising reasons.

Furthermore, the market for digital signage in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is also surging and accounts for more than 3 per

cent of revenue share.

Janne lee, Marketing Director of Shenzhen iDisplay Technology said, “We look forward to participating at the second edition of Integrate Middle East as we will be launching our new product, CrystalFlex LED Flexible Transparent Film Display, a 360-degree curve screen. We expect to witness more interactive learning zones, state-of-the-art digital art installations, and the launch of various cutting-edge products and services.”

Digital signage has become an integral part of the Pro AV market. By combining digital signage and AV technologies, brands are offered the ability to deliver dynamic content with captivating graphics and interactive features, going beyond static displays. Digital signage and audiovisual technology work together to produce a powerful medium that allows companies to narrate their stories using compelling and impactful visuals.

Jassim N P, Director of Unilumin Group Middle East and Africa, said, “We are thrilled to announce our participation in the second edition of the Integrate Middle East, which is expected to revolutionise digital signage in the region.”

Amazon.ae launches “It’s on Amazon Prime” campaign video in collaboration with Saatchi & Saatchi Middle East

Amazon.ae launched its regional “It’s on Amazon Prime” campaign, tailored for the UAE by Saatchi & Saatchi Middle East (ME). The campaign showcases the benefits of an Amazon Prime membership, such as Free and Fast delivery, Free International Shipping, Amazon Fresh, and Prime Video, through three new spots and various digital and social executions.

The regional campaign videos were conceptualized by Saatchi & Saatchi ME and designed with customer-first, local insights in mind. The “It’s on Amazon Prime” campaign adopts a storytelling formula, portraying a diverse range of customers facing everyday challenges, in order to illustrate how Prime seamlessly integrates into their lives to fulfil their needs.

The first film, features a young woman moving out of her parents’ home and setting up her own space for the first time. While her mother finds a simple and meaningful way to reach out as she misses her daughter’s presence at home, the young woman also discovers her

passion for cooking with Amazon Fresh sourced ingredients – making her mother proud with a homecooked surprise.

In the second film, we witness the day-to-day life of a couple with challenging schedules and watch them find small ways to connect, comfort each other, and spend quality time together. We see their kindness and willingness to make room for one another flourish, as they use Amazon Prime fast delivery to buy items to help ease each other’s mornings, share intimate homecooked dinners, and enjoy couch time spent watching their favourite shows on Prime Video.

The third film, illustrates the life of a new family of three. With the help of fast and free shipping across a selection of items, they find simple ways to care for their newborn while bringing their eldest son into the fold, helping him connect with his new brother. Some baby monitoring equipment, and a few toys later, family bonds are getting stronger.

You could say: whatever you need, it’s on Amazon Prime. From Same Day and Next-Day Delivery to Free International Shipping, Prime

Video, and Amazon Fresh, the campaign videos aim to improve benefit awareness, highlighting how Prime brings members closer to what matters most, redefining value, convenience, and delight.

Moemen Elhamalawy, Head of Marketing, Amazon Middle East and North Africa, said, “We are incredibly proud to share this regional instalment of the campaign with our customers in the UAE. The Amazon Prime membership is truly the best way for customers to enjoy Amazon. We have significantly improved the value customers get from Prime, by launching Amazon Fresh and Deliveroo benefits, improving speed through Same Day delivery and expanding Free delivery selection.” through cutting-edge innovative solutions.

Confluent launches Tableflow, bridging analytics and operations through data streaming

Confluent has introduced new features in Confluent Cloud for improved data streaming, connection, governance, and processing. Key updates include Confluent Tableflow for one-click transformation of Kafka topics into Iceberg tables, enhanced managed connectors with secure networking and lower costs, and default Stream Governance with an improved SLA for Schema Registry to facilitate safer data sharing and adjustments.

Shaun Clowes, Chief Product Officer at Confluent, said, “Businesses are left with a spaghetti mess of data that is painful to navigate and starves the business of real-time insights.”

Organizations widely adopt Kafka for operational data streaming and Iceberg for managing analytical data sets due to Iceberg’s ability to keep tables current and share data across teams and platforms as it changes.

“Open standards such as Apache Kafka and Apache Iceberg are popular choices for

streaming data and managing data in tables for analytics engines,” said

HUAWEI

Nova 12 series launches in UAE with

slim design,

powerful selfie cameras

Huawei unveils the new HUAWEI nova 12 Series, featuring innovative selfie technology and high-performance in sleek designs. The series is designed for style and tech enthusiasts, maintaining the nova Series’ signature ultrathin design, Star Orbit Ring, and vibrant colors. Alongside its stylish features, the nova 12 Series introduces cutting-edge camera technology, fast charging, and EMUI 14.

Pre-order the HUAWEI nova 12 Series from March 29th to April 2nd. The nova 12s is AED 1,599 in black, white, and blue, with free gifts worth AED 469. The nova 12 SE is AED 1,199 in black and green, while the nova 12i is AED 949, both with free gifts worth AED 379.

Ultra Slim, Ultra Stylish: The HUAWEI nova 12 Series

The HUAWEI nova 12 Series blends design and technology, offering sleek styles without compromising performance. The nova 12s features a lightweight design with an Extreme R Angle, while the 12 SE and 12i boast the

Stewart Bond, Vice

Shaun Clowes, Chief Product Officer at Confluent President of Data Intelligence and Integration Software at IDC.

iconic Star Orbit Ring and Super Star Orbit Ring designs. Available in vibrant colors, each

model reflects the confident styles of its young users.

Yango introduces innovative feature for muslim drivers

Yango, has launched a new feature in its driver app to help drivers adhere to their prayer schedules and distribute Iftar boxes during Ramadan. The feature is available to all partner drivers in the UAE, Morocco, and other countries, demonstrating Yango’s commitment to adapting global technologies for local communities.

During Ramadan, Yango introduces a new mode for drivers to integrate their daily schedule with their religious duties. The mode, informed by extensive research and fine-tuned through engagement with local communities, leverages cutting-edge technology. It includes innovative mapping and smart routing technologies to help drivers locate and navigate to the nearest mosque directly within the app, even in unfamiliar locations.

Drivers can activate a feature in the app settings to receive a 15-minute reminder before each prayer time and automatic muting of notifications during prayers. This ensures

they don’t miss ride opportunities, which are then assigned to nearby drivers. The feature also provides the Qibla direction and displays the prayer schedule for the next two days, with flexibility to set the prayer time calculation according to their preferred Islamic convention.

Islam Abdul Karim, General Manager, Yango

Zoom introduces AI-Powered collaboration platform, Zoom Workplace

Zoom Video Communications, introduced new AI Companion expansions to help reimagine teamwork. Zoom’s latest products and features, including new AI Companion features for Zoom Phone and extended capabilities with Ask AI Companion, a refreshed look within the Zoom app, and more, will provide its customers with the all-in-one AI-powered platform they need to power modern work. Zoom also announced customer experience enhancements to Zoom Contact Center, so businesses can strengthen customer relationships and leverage real-time AI-powered insights to improve live agent engagements.

“We have seen the positive impact that Zoom AI Companion has had on our business and our customers, transforming how we work by freeing up precious time for collaborative teamwork,” said Smita Hashim, chief product officer at Zoom.

“Zoom Workplace with AI Companion will help solve real customer problems by bringing the core collaboration solutions into a single AI-powered platform to help improve productivity, efficiency,

GCC, said, “The introduction of the new mode for drivers, permanent beyond the Ramadan period, is a step forward in our ongoing effort to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for partners’ drivers. It enriches their work-life balance, blending advanced technology with local customs and practices.” and the overall workday, all within

A Strategic Imperative

TechOps Competency Framework

Streamline their IT infrastructure and improve operational efficiency, which can result in lower costs and increased productivity.

Assess your current capabilities architecture and identify areas for improvement, helping you to make informed decisions about where to invest your technology resources

TechSust Align Biz Insights

Optimize and improve your technology systems, ensuring they are operating at peak efficiency and effectively supporting your business goals.

Provide advanced analytics services, leveraging the latest technologies and techniques to help you turn your data into actionable insights.

Develop a digital strategy that aligns with your business objectives, enabling you to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

CYBERSECURITY STRATEGIES

With cyber threats lurking around every corner, the imperative for robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. As organizations navigate the myriad of evolving threats, the integration of attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection emerges as a cornerstone to modern cybersecurity frameworks. To delve deeper into the significance of this unified approach and its real-world implications, we turn to AJ Nash, VP and Distinguished Fellow of Intelligence, ZeroFox, an esteemed expert with a rich background in the US intelligence community and the private sector.

AJ Nash’s Journey from Intelligence Analyst to Cybersecurity Specialist

AJ Nash’s foray into the realm of cybersecurity began within the corridors of the US intelligence community, where he honed his skills in intelligence analysis and counterterrorism. Following his transition to the private sector, AJ leveraged his extensive expertise to assist organizations in building and maturing their intelligence programs. With focus on unifying disparate elements into a cohesive strategy, he has been at the forefront of advocating for integrated cybersecurity frameworks.

Understanding Attack Surface

Management, Cyber Intelligence, and Digital Risk Protection

Attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection serve as the foundational pillars of modern cybersecurity. AJ explains the interconnected nature of these strategies, emphasizing the need for organizations to gain a comprehensive understanding of their digital landscape.

Attack Surface Management

At its core, attack surface management provides insights into an organization’s external exposure and vulnerabilities. It involves the systematic identification, assessment, and mitigation of potential

Nash, VP and Intelligence Fellow, ZeroFox

AJ

points of entry for cyber threats. By mapping out the entirety of their digital footprint, organizations can pinpoint areas of weakness and fortify their defenses accordingly.

Cyber Intelligence

Complementing attack surface management, cyber intelligence offers a deeper understanding of threats, threat actors, and their methodologies. Through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence data, organizations can proactively identify emerging threats and tailor their defensive measures accordingly. Cyber intelligence empowers organizations to stay one step ahead of adversaries by anticipating their tactics and strategies.

Digital Risk Protection

While attack surface management and cyber intelligence focus on technical aspects of cybersecurity, digital risk protection encompasses a broader spectrum of risk mitigation strategies. It revolves around safeguarding an organization’s brand and reputation in the digital realm, encompassing areas such as brand monitoring, threat detection, and incident response. By proactively monitoring for brand impersonation, phishing attempts, and other digital risks, organizations can preserve customer trust and mitigate potential reputational harm.

Significance of Integration: Enhancing Efficiency and Effectiveness

The integration of attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection yields manifold benefits for organizations. \By adopting a unified approach, AJ opines that organizations can streamline operations, improve threat detection and response capabilities, and ultimately bolster their cybersecurity posture.

Operational Efficiency

Integration eliminates redundancy and fragmentation, allowing organizations to consolidate their cybersecurity efforts into a cohesive strategy. By centralizing data and workflows, organizations can optimize resource allocation and enhance operational efficiency. Rather than operating in isolation, disparate teams can collaborate seamlessly, sharing insights and coordinating response efforts in real-time.

Threat Detection and Response

A unified approach to cybersecurity facilitates more robust threat detection and response capabilities. By correlating data from attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection, organizations can gain a comprehensive view of the threat landscape. This holistic perspective enables organizations to detect and mitigate threats more effectively, minimizing the likelihood and impact of successful cyberattacks.

Cost-effectiveness

Integration also delivers cost savings by minimizing duplication of efforts and maximizing resource utilization. Rather than investing in separate tools and platforms for attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection, organizations can leverage integrated solutions that offer comprehensive coverage across all fronts. This streamlined approach not only reduces overhead costs but also ensures a higher return on investment by delivering greater value through improved effectiveness.

Real-World Impact: A Customer Use Case

To illustrate the tangible benefits of a unified cybersecurity strategy, AJ shares a compelling customer use case. An online insurance brokerage grappling with reactive security measures sought to transition towards a proactive approach. Through this process, they were able to realize four specific areas of security improvements:

Enhanced Visibility

Through comprehensive attack surface management, the brokerage gained visibility into its external exposure and vulnerabilities. By mapping out its digital footprint, including web assets, third-party integrations, and cloud services, the brokerage identified previously unknown security gaps and weak points.By integrating cyber intelligence feeds into their security platform, the brokerage gained real-time insights into emerging threats and threat actors targeting their industry. This proactive approach enabled the brokerage to anticipate and mitigate threats before they could manifest into fullblown cyberattacks. With digital risk protection capabilities, the brokerage implemented proactive measures to safeguard its brand and reputation. By monitoring for brand impersonation attempts, phishing attacks, and other digital

risks, the brokerage was able to mitigate potential reputational harm and preserve customer trust.

By unifying attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection, the brokerage achieved greater resilience against cyber threats. Through continuous monitoring and threat validation, the brokerage was better equipped to defend against evolving threats and maintain business continuity in the face of adversity.

Looking Ahead: Navigating the Complexities of Modern Threats

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, Nash emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of the curve. Emerging technologies such as synthetic media pose novel challenges, blurring the lines between reality and deception. In a world where disinformation campaigns and social engineering tactics abound, maintaining vigilance and adaptability is paramount.

Fostering a culture of security awareness is essential in mitigating the risks posed by emerging threats. By educating employees about the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices, organizations can empower their workforce to become active participants in their cybersecurity defenses.

Leveraging advanced tools and techniques is crucial to staying ahead of sophisticated cyber threats. From artificial intelligence and machine learning to threat hunting and behavioral analytics, organizations must embrace innovative technologies to augment their cybersecurity capabilities.

In the face of increasingly complex threats, collaboration and information sharing are critical. By participating in industry forums, threat intelligence sharing platforms, and public-private partnerships, organizations can gain valuable insights into emerging threats and collective defense strategies.

In an era defined by digital transformation and escalating cyber threats, the integration of attack surface management, cyber intelligence, and digital risk protection emerges as a linchpin of effective cybersecurity. Through a unified approach, organizations can gain a comprehensive understanding of their digital landscape, detect and mitigate threats proactively, and fortify their defenses against emerging risks. As AJ Nash’s insights illuminate, the path to cybersecurity resilience lies in collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to defending against evolving threats.

Leading the charge in digital transformation with NetSuite

Adaptability is key to survival and Madi Internaional, a prominent player in the GCC region, understands this mantra all too well. Since its inception, the group has continuously evolved, staying ahead of the curve through strategic decision-making and a commitment to innovation.

At the heart of Madi Internaional’s transformation lies its adoption of NetSuite in 2019. This pivotal move wasn’t just about upgrading technology; it was about reimagining the way the company operated. With operations spanning multiple countries and a diverse portfolio of products and services, Madi Internaional recognized the need for a unified solution to streamline its operations.

“We evaluated numerous options,” recalls Rabih Madi, “and found that our previous on-premises solution lacked the high customizability and adaptability necessary for our desired growth trajectory.”

What attracted Madi Internaional to NetSuite was its ability to consolidate various features into a single platform. Instead of juggling separate finance, accounting, inventory, and demand planning systems, NetSuite offered a one-stop solution, fostering collaboration among teams spread across different locations.

As Madi Internaional expanded its footprint in the GCC region, it encountered a unique set of challenges. Onboarding new brands meant ensuring seamless integration of processes across departments. With a vast portfolio comprising over 25,000 SKUs, precision was paramount. Accurate classification of items in the system was essential to avoid issues in warehousing or sales downstream.

Managing operations across five countries and multiple business

the organization.

But implementing NetSuite wasn’t just about technology—it was about empowering employees. Madi Internaional invested in comprehensive training programs tailored to different functions within the organization. Regular knowledge-sharing sessions ensured that everyone was equipped to leverage NetSuite’s capabilities effectively.

Change is the only constant. We must evolve or risk being left behind.

entities required a system capable of handling complexity. Madi Internaional’s salons, distribution networks, and proprietary brands all needed to be seamlessly integrated. NetSuite proved instrumental in managing these intricacies, providing visibility and control across

As Madi Internaional looks to the future, its focus remains on growth and innovation. The salon business, a cornerstone of the group’s success, continues to expand. Additionally, collaborations with retailers, growth in e-commerce, and ventures into medical aesthetics signify new avenues for growth.

“Change is the only constant,” emphasizes Rabih. “We must evolve or risk being left behind. NetSuite plays a crucial role in supporting our expansion plans, providing the data visibility needed to make informed decisions and drive our growth strategy forward.”

In a world where digital transformation is imperative for survival, Madi Internaional stands as a beacon of adaptability and innovation. By embracing change and leveraging technology, the group continues to redefine what’s possible in the ever-evolving landscape of commerce.

Rabih Madi, COO at Madi International

NETSCOUT innovates cybersecurity solutions, leads industry in performance management

NETSCOUT continues to innovate with solutions like Adaptive DDoS Protection for Arbor Edge Defense (AED), addressing industry challenges head-on. In an era defined by digital transformation, cybersecurity and performance management have become paramount concerns for businesses. NETSCOUT, a pioneer in this field, continues to innovate and address industry challenges with cutting-edge solutions.

One of their recent innovations, Adaptive DDoS Protection for Arbor Edge Defense (AED), stands out. This solution is designed to protect ISPs and enterprises from specific types of cyberattacks, such as DNS water torture attacks. It continually analyzes DNS query and response packets to learn legitimate hostnames for each domain, empowering Security Operations Center (SOC) teams to automatically detect, adapt to, and mitigate dynamic DDoS attacks. Moreover, NETSCOUT provides seamless insights into service performance across the entire IT environment, from the network and applications to the user community. With Arbor Edge Defense (AED) installed at the network perimeter, it can automatically detect and block both inbound threats and outgoing communication from internally compromised hosts.

Digital transformation brings its own set of challenges, including network performance, security, and visibility. NETSCOUT

NETSCOUT supports organizations in their digitalization journey by strengthening their digital infrastructures and providing proactive security against modern threats.

supports organizations in their digitalization journey by strengthening their digital infrastructures and providing proactive security against modern threats. They work closely with industry partners, standards bodies, and regulatory agencies to shape best practices and standards, ensuring customers benefit from their broad expertise and insights.

NETSCOUT values its vendor partners, viewing them as integral to its operations. Partner programs are designed to drive mutual business growth and foster strong relationships. Strategies such as certification on solutions, partner-specific communications, a dedicated partner portal, deal registration, and proposal-based marketing funds are employed to support partners. Collaborations with technology giants like AWS, Cisco, Citrix, Dell Technologies, Google Cloud, Oracle, and VMware further enhance their offerings.

In an increasingly complex technology landscape, interoperability and seamless integration between solutions from different vendors, especially in hybrid IT environments, are critical. NETSCOUT uses open standards and APIs to facilitate integration and data exchange between diverse systems. Collaborations and certification programs validate interoperability, ensuring visibility and control across on-premises, cloud, and edge deployments.

To maintain fair and transparent collaboration across its partner ecosystem, NETSCOUT establishes clear guidelines for partner interactions, ensuring neutral positioning in vendor competition. Open communication channels allow partners to express concerns constructively, fostering a healthy partner ecosystem focused on mutual growth.

Gaurav Mohan, VP of SAARC & Middle East, NETSCOUT

Cequence Security sets new standards for API security and bot management

In an era marked by digital transformation, the need for robust API security and bot management solutions has never been more critical.

Cequence Security stands at the forefront of this field, leading the market with its innovative Unified API Protection (UAP) Platform. This platform seamlessly integrates API discovery, compliance, and protection capabilities, providing comprehensive protection against a wide range of threats.

Cequence presented API Sentinel to the security team, initiating a proof of concept (PoC). Within days of deployment, API Sentinel identified over 4,600 active API endpoints across their infrastructure, representing a 98% increase in API visibility and inventory compared to the state before Cequence’s introduction. Moreover, they were able to obtain deep security insights that included the following:

l Six incidents of sensitive data exposure, including customer IDs, account numbers, and other sensitive business data.

l Five instances of user authentication issues, with usernames and passwords exposed in cleartext, potentially accessible

Additionally, Cequence has a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes for its clients, earning recognition and accolades from industry analysts and customers alike.

to attackers.

l . Detection of four fake request headers, designed to deceive applications into processing rogue requests to gain sensitive data.

The Datos Insights Vendor Evaluation recently recognized Cequence for its excellence across all evaluation components, a testament to its industryleading solutions. Cequence excelled in criteria such as implementation model, API discovery, security policies, access control,

Andy Mills , VP of SAARC & Middle East, Cequence

vulnerability detection, threat management, event notification, monitoring, testing, dashboard usability, auditing, and solution design. This comprehensive approach ensures that Cequence’s solutions are not only effective but also user-friendly and adaptable to varying needs.

Cequence’s success can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the company leverages advanced technology, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, to provide robust API security

solutions. This enables Cequence to offer comprehensive coverage for API security, addressing various aspects such as API discovery, threat detection, vulnerability management, and access control.

Moreover, Cequence’s solutions are highly effective in mitigating a wide range of threats, including API abuse, data breaches, and business disruptions. This is crucial in today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape, where organizations are constantly facing new and sophisticated attacks.

Cequence’s scalability and flexibility further set it apart from other solutions in the market. Its solutions are capable of adapting to the evolving needs and complexities of modern enterprises, ensuring that organizations can stay ahead of emerging threats.

Additionally, Cequence has a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes for its clients, earning recognition and accolades from industry analysts and customers alike. This track record, coupled with its commitment

to innovation and excellence, makes Cequence a trusted partner for organizations looking to secure their API ecosystems.

In less than 30 minutes, an API security customer discovered and protected a shadow API that was under attack. This highlights the rapid-time-to-value approach of Cequence’s bot protection, which eliminates the need for cumbersome SDK or JavaScript integration. The agentless bot prevention with API Spartan is made possible by CQAI, a multidimensional machine learning engine that accurately models and detects the attacker ecosystem, even when cybercriminals retool to avoid detection.

Why API Security Matters for Large Enterprises: Customers benefit from a highly streamlined onboarding process that delivers immediate time-tovalue API protection for their critical applications. This process eliminates software integration, page load delays, and forced mobile app updates. In contrast, other security vendors may take weeks to months to onboard API protection for

a single API endpoint, leaving the door open for attackers to continue conducting attack campaigns.

API Sentinel saved developers hours by automatically verifying API compliance with OpenAPI specifications for each endpoint discovered. It also established a baseline to detect any changes or additions made by developers to headers or fields, enabling the security team to be notified and update their monitoring. This proactive approach ensures API endpoints are continuously monitored and kept up to date with the latest security standards.

Looking ahead, Cequence is poised to deliver even more significant innovations and developments in the realm of API security and bot management. By leveraging advanced AI technologies and expanding its focus to address a broader range of industry use cases, Cequence is ensuring that its offerings remain at the forefront of API security and bot management, safeguarding its clients against evolving threats and ensuring the integrity of their digital infrastructure.

Snowflake transforming data platforms and accelerating digital transformation

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, companies are increasingly turning to innovative technologies to gain a competitive edge. Snowflake, a leading data platform, is at the forefront of this revolution, providing businesses with the tools they need to unlock the full potential of their data and drive digital transformation.

One of Snowflake’s key innovations is Snowflake Cortex, an intelligent, fully managed service that offers machine learning and AI solutions. Cortex’s capabilities include SQL and Python functions that leverage large language models (LLMs) for understanding, querying, translating, summarizing, and generating free-form text. These functions enable organizations to gain insights into their data and accelerate everyday analytics, all within Snowflake’s secure environment.

Snowflake’s platform is built on the belief that to gain maximum value from AI, a data platform must form the heart of a successful AI strategy. By consolidating data into a single platform across multiple clouds, organizations can gain unprecedented visibility into their data, generating actionable insights that drive competitive advantage and operational efficiency.

In addition to its innovative solutions, Snowflake is also committed to supporting its clients in their digital transformation journey. The

In addition to its innovative solutions, Snowflake is also committed to supporting its clients in their digital transformation journey. The company believes that achieving a successful digital transformation strategy is rooted in data

company believes that achieving a successful digital transformation strategy is rooted in data. By powering data in Snowflake’s Data Cloud, organizations can adopt a modern and scalable approach to their data analytics, ensuring they are equipped with near real-time data to keep up with the ever-changing business and technological landscape.

Snowflake’s success is not just about its innovative technologies, but

Selim Abid, Partners & Alliances Lead, META region at Snowflake

also about its strong relationships with its vendor partners. Through its Snowflake Partner Network, the company collaborates with a wide range of partners, including global system integrators, technology vendors, and cloud providers, to ensure seamless integration and interoperability between solutions from different vendors, especially in hybrid IT environments.

Looking ahead, Snowflake is committed to continuing its mission of revolutionizing data platforms and enabling digital transformation for businesses worldwide. With its innovative solutions, strong partnerships, and commitment to customer success, Snowflake is poised to lead the way in the future of data analytics and AI..

The evolving role of distributors

Key Highlights:

l Technology distributors introduce pioneering solutions to tackle evolving industry challenges, such as cyber threats and digital transformation barriers.

l Distributors play a crucial role in facilitating digital transformation by offering managed services that streamline IT processes and reduce the burden of heavy investments.

l Strong partnerships between distributors and vendors drive innovation and mutual growth through transparent communication and collaborative efforts.

l Distributors prioritize seamless integration between solutions from different vendors to navigate the complexities of modern IT environments effectively.

l Distributors uphold ethical standards in their relationships with vendors, ensuring fairness, integrity, and transparency in all interactions to foster trust and mutual success.

The role of distributors has become increasingly pivotal. They serve as the bridge between vendors and end-users, facilitating the smooth integration of advanced solutions into complex IT environments. Cenk Kivilcim, Senior Services Director at GBM, provides valuable insights into the strategies and initiatives that are shaping innovation and collaboration in this dynamic industry.

Innovative Solutions and Industry Challenges:

Innovation is the cornerstone of progress in the tech industry. Kivilcim sheds light on GBM’s pioneering Cyber Defense program, GBM Shield,

GBM Shield stands out for its disruptive approach to cyber defense, empowering organizations to anticipate, detect, and respond to threats effectively.

which represents a paradigm shift in addressing contemporary security challenges. He emphasizes the program’s adaptability and efficacy in tackling evolving cyber threats. “GBM Shield is not just another security solution; it’s a comprehensive program designed to provide defensegrade services to enterprises of all sizes,” he asserts.

Cenk Kivilcim, Senior Services Director, GBM

Supporting Digital Transformation:

Digital transformation has become imperative for businesses striving to remain competitive in today’s digital age. Kivilcim underscores the pivotal role of technology distributors in supporting organizations on their journey towards digitalization. He elaborates on GBM’s commitment to simplifying IT processes through managed services. “Our aim is to streamline IT operations, empowering organizations to achieve their digital objectives without the burden of heavy investments in new systems and skills,” he explains.

Fostering Collaboration with Vendor Partners:

Collaboration lies at the heart of successful vendor relationships. Kivilcim stresses the importance of establishing strong partnerships built on mutual trust and respect. He highlights the significance of transparent and open communication channels between GBM and its vendor partners. “By fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, we work hand-in-hand with our partners to address the

evolving needs of customers and drive mutual growth,” he affirms.

Ensuring Interoperability in Hybrid IT Environments:

The complexity of modern IT environments demands seamless interoperability between solutions from different vendors. Kivilcim emphasizes the critical role of skilled resources and agile teams in navigating hybrid IT landscapes. He discusses GBM’s approach to ensuring interoperability and integration across diverse technology platforms. “In hybrid IT environments, interoperability is key. We prioritize skilled resources and agile methodologies to overcome the inherent complexities,” he states.

Co-Innovation Initiatives and Joint Development Projects:

Co-innovation initiatives between distributors and vendors yield tailored solutions that exceed customer expectations. Kivilcim elaborates on GBM’s collaborative efforts with vendors to deliver customized offerings. He emphasizes the customer-centric approach to

co-innovation, stating, “By closely analyzing customer needs and upscaling services, GBM delivers tailored solutions that drive innovation and add tangible value to our customers.”

Navigating Potential Conflicts of Interest: Transparency, fairness, and ethical conduct are essential in vendor relationships. Kivilcim emphasizes the importance of clear guidelines and impartiality in contract award decisions. He discusses GBM’s approach to navigating potential conflicts of interest, ensuring that vendor relationships are conducted with integrity. “Adhering to ethical standards ensures that our vendor relationships are based on trust and transparency,” he asserts.

Technology distributors like GBM play a crucial role in driving innovation, collaboration, and mutual growth in the tech market. Through innovative solutions, support for digital transformation, collaborative partnerships with vendors, interoperability initiatives, co-innovation projects, and ethical conduct, GBM continues to lead the way in empowering organizations to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Intercede’s MyID MFA v5 revolutionizes digital security I

n today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the need for robust authentication solutions has never been more critical. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, organizations face the daunting task of safeguarding their systems and data against unauthorized access. Recognizing this pressing need, Intercede, a pioneer in high-assurance PKI solutions, has embarked on a journey to redefine authentication security with the acquisition of Authlogics and the launch of MyID MFA v5.

Strengthening Intercede’s Arsenal

Intercede’s strategic acquisition of Authlogics in October 2022 marked a pivotal moment in the company’s trajectory. Allen Storey, Intercede’s Chief Product Officer, highlights the significance of this move, stating, “For over 20 years, we’ve been leaders in high-assurance PKI solutions. Now, with password security management and multi-factor authentication (MFA) on board, we can empower any organization, regardless of size, to achieve robust security, allowing us to cover the entire authentication pyramid.”

This integration of capabilities positions Intercede uniquely in the market, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions ranging from basic passwords to FIDO passkeys and PKI, seamlessly integrated to address the diverse needs of modern enterprises.

Seamless Transition, Uncompromised Support

With the launch of MyID MFA v5, Intercede prioritizes a smooth

Existing Authlogics MFA v4 users will receive a simple upgrade, allowing them to leverage new features while maintaining their current deployments.”

transition for existing customers while ensuring unwavering support and commitment to exceeding security needs. Siobhan Morey-Millington, Sales Director at Intercede, reassures customers, stating, “The transition to MyID MFA v5 is designed to be smooth and secure.” Existing Authlogics MFA v4 users will receive a simple upgrade, enabling them to leverage new features while maintaining their current deployments.

Siobhan Morey Millington, Sales Director, Intercede

Moreover, Intercede emphasizes exceptional service, collaborating closely with partners to provide high levels of support to existing customers. This commitment to customer satisfaction extends to the deployment process, with MyID MFA v5 known for its ease of use, enabling organizations to experience security benefits quickly.

Empowering organisations with Enhanced Security

MyID MFA v5 introduces a host of new features aimed at enhancing authentication security for organizations. Allen Storey elaborates on these advancements, stating, “Support for FIDO passkeys empowers

Existing Authlogics MFA v4 users will receive a simple upgrade, allowing them to leverage new features while maintaining their current deployments.”

organizations to leverage highly secure and phishing-resistant authentication.” Additionally, the integration of federation offers a modern alternative to ADFS, simplifying authentication using existing identities such as Google or Microsoft credentials.

These enhancements not only bolster security but also offer greater flexibility and simplicity in integration, providing organizations with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity threats effectively.

Leveling the Playing Field for SMBs

While robust authentication solutions have often been perceived as inaccessible to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) due to complexity and cost, MyID MFA v5 aims to change that narrative. Siobhan MoreyMillington emphasizes the practicality of the solution for organizations of all sizes, stating, “MyID MFA v5 removes barriers to highsecurity authentication, delivering it in a userfriendly and cost-effective package.”

By prioritizing ease of use and affordability, Intercede enables SMBs to protect their systems and data with the highest levels of security, leveling the playing field in the realm of cybersecurity.

Rapid ROI: Unlocking Immediate Benefits

The benefits of MyID MFA v5 extend beyond enhanced security, offering organizations immediate returns on their investment. Siobhan Morey-Millington highlights the potential for

cost savings, citing Forrester’s estimation of the average cost of a single password reset for an enterprise.

Furthermore, the solution’s ease of deployment allows organizations to be up and running within days, experiencing the security advantages quickly. By integrating with MyID PSM, organizations can maximize the return on investment through a staged rollout of MFA, ensuring alignment with business priorities and resource constraints.

Securing the Future of Authentication

In an era defined by digital transformation

Allen Storey, CPO, Intercede

and evolving cyber threats, Intercede’s MyID MFA v5 stands as a beacon of innovation and security. Through strategic acquisitions, seamless transitions, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Intercede empowers organizations to navigate the complexities of authentication with confidence.

As businesses continue to adapt to an increasingly digital world, MyID MFA v5 offers a glimpse into the future of authentication, where security, simplicity, and scalability converge to protect what matters most. With Intercede at the helm, the future of authentication security has never looked brighter.

What’s trending

Cloudera appoints Charbel Khalil as Qatar’s new country manager

Cloudera has appointed Charbel Khalil’s as Qatar’s new country manager. This strategic move underscores Cloudera’s commitment to expanding its presence in Qatar and driving digital transformation initiatives.

With over 15 years of experience in Qatar, Charbel has shaped the region’s technological landscape. His contributions span various sectors, including government entities, the financial industry, energy & utilities, health, and others, where he played pivotal roles in helping large organisations with their digitalisation journey.

Charbel’s expertise extends to aiding organisations in their digital transformation journey, notably supporting the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Moreover, his profound understanding of market dynamics and proficiency in data management, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence positions him as an exemplary leader to spearhead Cloudera’s strategic initiatives in Qatar.

“I am honored to join Cloudera and lead our initiatives in Qatar.,” said Charbel Khalil. “This is a pivotal moment for the company in driving transformative change, and I am committed to leveraging Cloudera’s unparalleled expertise to empower organizations in Qatar to navigate and thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.”

IFS Appoints Merlin Knott as president of IFS assyst

Merlin Knott, President, IFS assyst

IFS has appointed Merlin Knott as President of IFS Enterprise Service Management, showing their commitment to customer success and growth through new routes-to-market, reflecting the opportunity and value of enterprise service management.

Freshworks announces CEO transition

Girish Mathrubootham, CEO, President of Freshworks

Dennis Woodside has been appointed as the new CEO and President of Freshworks Inc, effective immediately. He will succeed Girish Mathrubootham, who will transition to the role of Executive Chairman. Mathrubootham will continue to serve as chairman of the Board of Directors, while Woodside will also remain a member of the Board.

Since its founding in 2010, Mathrubootham has grown Freshworks from a startup in Chennai to a top SaaS company in San Mateo. He led Freshworks through an IPO on Nasdaq in September 2021, making it the first India-born SaaS firm on a US exchange.

“When I first proposed this next step to the Freshworks Board, we were starting to chart the next phase of our company’s journey. We brought Dennis on board to partner with me on crafting an ambitious growth plan, and my hope was that he could eventually lead the team of talented employees around the world to execute it, which would allow me to spend more time on the long-term product vision, innovation and AI strategy,” said Mathrubootham.

As Executive Chairman, Mathrubootham will stay actively involved in Freshworks’ product vision, customers, and employees. He will collaborate with Woodside on strategic decisions and focus on engaging with product teams in India, customers worldwide, and other stakeholders.

Knott joined IFS in 2019 after leading highgrowth enterprise software channel organizations at SAP, Cura Software, and MicroStrategy. At IFS, he ran the global Partner and Channel organization, which grew to contribute over 40% of software license revenue under his leadership, helping propel IFS’s growth trajectory.

In his new role leading the IFS assyst team, Knott will continue to focus on supporting our global customer base. He will bring a new dimension to what IFS assyst can offer customers across the IFS eco-system by commercializing IFS’s full suite of service offerings.

IFS assyst transforms internal service management, including IT services, and supports operational service unification. It includes selfservice portals, knowledge bases, service request dispatch, remote assistance, and field service execution. IFS assyst is committed to low total cost of ownership, quick time-to-value, and a seamless experience.

Merlin Knott, President, IFS assyst, said, “I am incredibly excited about the opportunity to demonstrate to existing and future customers, the value that IFS assyst can deliver. IFS is the only solutions provider that can deliver comprehensive, end-to-end service solutions to customers across industries.”

Charbel Khalil, Country Manager Qatar & Oman.