Edge chief says UAE's safety is built on strategy and technology
Hamad Al Marar explains how Edge Group supports the UAE's defence - from cyber to satellite - and why readiness is key to peace
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Zawya
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- Zawya
Kaspersky: ChatGPT-mimicking cyberthreats surge 115% in early 2025
In 2025, nearly 8,500 users from small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) faced cyberattacks where malicious or unwanted software was disguised as popular online productivity tools, Kaspersky reports. Based on the unique malicious and unwanted files observed, the most common lures included Zoom and Microsoft Office, with newer AI-based services like ChatGPT and DeepSeek being increasingly exploited by attackers. Kaspersky has released threat analysis and mitigation strategies to help SMBs respond. Kaspersky analysts explored how frequently malicious and unwanted software are disguised as legitimate applications commonly used by SMBs, using a sample of 12 online productivity apps. In total, Kaspersky observed more than 4,000 unique malicious and unwanted files disguised as popular apps in 2025. With the growing popularity of AI services, cybercriminals are increasingly disguising malware as AI tools. The number of cyberthreats mimicking ChatGPT increased by 115% in the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching 177 unique malicious and unwanted files. Another popular AI tool, DeepSeek, accounted for 83 files. This large language model launched in 2025 immediately appeared on the list of impersonated tools. ' Interestingly, threat actors are rather picky in choosing an AI tool as bait. For example, no malicious files mimicking Perplexity were observed. The likelihood that an attacker will use a tool as a disguise for malware or other types of unwanted software directly depends on the service's popularity and hype around it. The more publicity and conversation there is around a tool, the more likely a user will come across a fake package on the internet. To be on the safe side, SMB employees – as well as regular users – should exercise caution when looking for software on the internet or coming across too-good-to-be-true subscription deals. Always check the correct spelling of the website and links in suspicious emails. In many cases these links may turn out to be phishing or a link that downloads malicious or potentially unwanted software ', says Vasily Kolesnikov, security expert at Kaspersky. Another cybercriminal tactic to look for in 2025 is the growing use of collaboration platform brands to trick users into downloading or launching malware. The number of malicious and unwanted software files disguised as Zoom increased by nearly 13% in 2025, reaching 1,652, while such names as 'Microsoft Teams' and 'Google Drive' saw increases of 100% and 12%, respectively, with 206 and 132 cases. This pattern likely reflects the normalization of remote work and geographically distributed teams, which has made these platforms integral to business operations across industries. Among the analyzed sample, the highest number of files mimicked Zoom, accounting for nearly 41% of all unique files detected. Microsoft Office applications remained frequent targets for impersonation: Outlook and PowerPoint each accounted for 16%, Excel for nearly 12%, while Word and Teams made up 9% and 5%, respectively. Share of unique files with names mimicking the popular legitimate applications in 2024 and 2025 The top threats targeting small and medium businesses in 2025 included downloaders, trojans and adware. Phishing and Spam Apart from malware threats, Kaspersky continues to observe a wide range of phishing and scam schemes targeting SMBs. Attackers aim to steal login credentials for various services — from delivery platforms to banking systems — or manipulate victims into sending them money through deceptive tactics. One example is a phishing attempt targeting Google Accounts. Attackers promise potential victims to increase sales by advertising their company on X, with the ultimate goal to steal their credentials. Beyond phishing, SMBs are flooded with spam emails. Not surprisingly, AI has also made its way into the spam folder — for example, with offers for automating various business processes. In general, Kaspersky observes phishing and spam offers crafted to reflect the typical needs of small businesses, promising attractive deals on email marketing or loans, offering services such as reputation management, content creation, or lead generation, and more. Learn more about the cyber threat landscape for SMBs on Securelist. To mitigate threats targeting businesses, their owners and employees are advised to implement the following measures: Use specialized cybersecurity solutions that provide visibility and control over cloud services (e.g., Kaspersky Next). Define access rules for corporate resources such as email accounts, shared folders, and online documents. Regularly backup important data. Establish clear guidelines for using external services. Create well-defined procedures for implementing new software with the involvement of IT and other responsible managers. About Kaspersky Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. With over a billion devices protected to date from emerging cyberthreats and targeted attacks, Kaspersky's deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect individuals, businesses, critical infrastructure, and governments around the globe. The company's comprehensive security portfolio includes leading digital life protection for personal devices, specialized security products and services for companies, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. We help millions of individuals and over 200,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at
Zawya
25 minutes ago
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Thawani Pay and Ominvest unveil ‘Ominvest Plus' for enhanced employee lifestyle benefits
Muscat: In alignment with its strategic vision to invest in the well-being of its human capital and foster meaningful private-sector partnerships, Thawani Pay has signed a strategic agreement with Oman International Development & Investment Company (Ominvest) to launch the "Ominvest Plus" initiative - an exclusive discount and offers platform tailored for Ominvest employees and their families. The agreement was signed by Majid Al Amri, Founder and CEO of Thawani Pay, and Abdulaziz Al Balushi, Group CEO of Ominvest, marking a significant step forward in employee-focused benefits under Thawani's 'Sama' corporate offers platform. The 'Ominvest Plus' platform unlocks a curated selection of offers across diverse lifestyle categories, including restaurants, hotels, wellness services, and automotive care. Designed to provide exceptional convenience, the card enables users to redeem unlimited offers through the Thawani app, with the flexibility to complete transactions via the app or through other preferred payment methods. The platform will be available exclusively to Ominvest employees and their families, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience integrated into their everyday lives. In this context, Majid Al Amri, CEO of Thawani Pay said: 'At Thawani, our mission is to lead the fintech sector by delivering smart, simple, and secure payment services today's launch of the 'Ominvest Plus' exemplifies this commitment. By bringing exclusive lifestyle benefits directly to Ominvest employees and their families through our Sama platform, we're not only enhancing convenience but also redefining how fintech innovations can uplift human capital. This partnership underscores our belief that when technology, purpose, and care come together, we create ecosystems that drive real impact.' Commenting on the partnership, AbdulAziz Al Balushi, Group CEO of Ominvest said: 'At Ominvest, we continuously seek opportunities to create synergies across our diverse group companies and leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance value. 'Ominvest Plus' is a prime example of how we integrate innovation into our strategy to benefit our most valuable asset—our people. This collaboration with Thawani not only introduces tangible lifestyle benefits for our employees and their families but also reinforces our commitment to a tech-driven future and fostering a connected ecosystem within the Ominvest group. This collaboration with Thawani Pay aligns perfectly with our vision of building a future-ready enterprise.' Waleed Al Yarubi, Chief People, Corporate Communication and Sustainability Officer, added: 'This initiative is a testament to Ominvest's unwavering commitment to cultivating a thriving, people-first culture. This initiative is strategically aligned with our broader goals of sustainability and ESG, demonstrating our commitment to the well-being and growth of our human capital. By empowering our employees with smart, lifestyle-enhancing solutions, we are not only increasing engagement and retention but also building a more resilient and impactful organization from within.' This initiative underscores Thawani Pay's forward-looking approach to innovation and its role as a catalyst for transforming workplace experiences across the private sector. By aligning with institutions such as Ominvest, Thawani is helping shape dynamic and progressive work environments that prioritize employee well-being. Through thoughtful, tech-driven collaborations, the company continues to redefine how organizations can uplift their teams by offering smart benefits that are both practical and inspiring. As Thawani Pay continues to expand its corporate solutions and deepen its engagement with key stakeholders, it remains steadfast in its mission to build value-driven ecosystems where innovation and human impact go hand in hand. The launch of 'Ominvest Plus' stands as a testament to this vision by delivering meaningful benefits through collaboration, technology, and purpose.
Zawya
25 minutes ago
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Mobily recognized among the world's top 5 telecom operators
Mobily continues to drive strong value creation, positioning itself as a key player in the global telecom landscape. Deployment of AI positioned as an essential driver for operational excellence and competitive differentiation. BCG analysis serves as a guiding framework for telecom leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of an evolving digital ecosystem and capitalize on emerging opportunities for sustainable growth and industry leadership. Riyadh — Saudi Arabia's Mobily has entered the ranks of the world's top 5 telecom operator value creators, according to the Boston Consulting Group's (BCG) 2025 Telco Value Creators Report. The milestone is attributed to $7 billion in value creation from 2020 to 2024, representing a successful transformation driven by digital innovation and strategic positioning. The BCG report, titled "Returns May Be Declining, but Opportunity Is Calling," advocates for transformative growth in the telecommunications sector, despite prevailing industry challenges. According to the analysis, Mobily ranks 4th based on its five-year Total Shareholder Return (TSR) from 2020 to 2024, which stands at 19%. This achievement signifies a market capitalization of $11 billion. The competitive edge for six of the top ten telecom performers from emerging markets stems from regulatory conditions and investment approaches that successfully yield a Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) outpacing the Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) by 60 basis points. Kaustubh Wagle, Managing Director & Partner, BCG said: "Developments in network structures and the introduction of innovative products, driven by the adoption of AI, have paved the way for significant value generation for telecommunications companies such as Mobily. These technological advancements harness AI's capabilities to significantly enhance the telecom sector, marking a pivotal moment for operators globally to re-evaluate their conventional approaches, considering the prospects that lie ahead towards the 2025 outlook. The research shows that by adopting progressive strategies, leading telecom firms illustrate a practical plan for substantial value growth, providing a model for others to follow in achieving success within the current market environment." The report underscores the critical necessity for telecom operators to enhance value generation through a multifaceted approach: optimizing physical and network assets, adopting new cost-efficient network architectures, and innovating with next-generation products and marketing strategies. How GCC Telcos Are Leading the Shift AI and digital services are emerging as pivotal elements in the transformation toward smarter, more efficient enterprises. Investments by operators in automation, customer intelligence, and tailored AI solutions for enterprises underscore this pivotal shift. This is further propelled by strategic alliances with both hyperscale cloud providers and local startups, driving scalable, bespoke enterprise AI solutions. In parallel, sovereign cloud and data security initiatives are important within the GCC region. Operators are forging partnerships with global technology corporations to establish compliant, local cloud infrastructures, reinforcing data residency and sovereignty—critical components for adherence to compliance standards and the monetization of AI and analytics in regulated industries. "For telecom companies, it's crucial to act quickly and with insight, utilizing AI as a key enhancer of innovation, operational effectiveness, and customer interaction. Mobily's success underscores the value of adopting a forward-thinking and innovation-led investment strategy, highlighting the significance of transformative mergers and acquisitions as well as the adoption of cutting-edge marketing strategies,' added David Panhans, Managing Director and Senior Partner at BCG The deployment of next-generation networks, such as 5G and Open RAN, are geared toward achieving operational efficiencies and incubating new revenue streams, including low-latency services integral to smart city and IoT frameworks. Efforts in edge computing and low-earth-orbit satellite partnerships aim to extend connectivity, granting telcos the opportunity to exploit untapped markets. Regarding monetization, the focus on enterprise modernization, the bundling of AI-driven services, and an infrastructure aligned with AI optimization are key components for maximizing the returns from investment in next-generation technologies. Further investments in next-gen network infrastructures align with the GCC's ambition to advance smart cities and assert digital leadership. The Path Forward: A New Model for Value Creation Telecommunications operators could benefit from a proactive approach to optimizing their strategic assets. This involves the monetization of infrastructural assets and the simplification of business models. By exploring shared-models and cloud-based solutions for non-core assets like fixed-line networks and data centers, telecommunications operators can enhance efficiency. Additionally, mergers and acquisitions are pivotal in solidifying market presence and achieving operational synergies, driving industry consolidation towards increased profitability and market leadership. Cost and Capital Expenditure (CapEx) optimization remains at the heart of this transformative agenda, with AI and automation serving as principal levers. AI enables significant CapEx efficiency through infrastructural innovations such as Open RAN, which mitigates vendor lock-in and lowers associated expenditures while additional network-sharing arrangements can generate substantial annual cost savings. As 5G deployments mature, redirecting cash flows from these efficiencies to facilitate growth or shareholder dividends underscores a disciplined CapEx strategy. The development of next-generation network architecture takes center stage, featuring cloud-native systems, Open RAN, and edge computing. These technologies are essential to reducing costs, fostering technological flexibility, and enabling advanced applications for smart cities and the Internet of Things. In concert with this architectural evolution, sales and marketing strategies are undergoing a transformative shift towards AI-empowered personalization, enhancing interactions across both B2C and B2B domains. The blend of automated and human-driven sales interactions represents a hybrid model where AI-addressable inquiries streamline customer service, reserving high-value interactions for expert human engagement. AI is playing a dual role, reducing operational costs and accelerating growth, enabling personalized consumer offerings and sector-specific B2B tools. The telcos poised for superior performance are those merging these strategies: modernizing network and operational infrastructure, refining asset portfolios to concentrate on areas with the highest potential, and innovating customer engagement through data-driven insights. As per BCG's report, embracing cloud-native technologies, facilitating edge computing for IoT applications, and executing on network-sharing agreements, have clear-cut implications for the evolution of the telecom sector's operational and competitive dynamics. About Boston Consulting Group Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we help clients with total transformation—inspiring complex change, enabling organizations to grow, building competitive advantage, and driving bottom-line impact. To succeed, organizations must blend digital and human capabilities. Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives to spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting along with technology and design, corporate and digital ventures—and business purpose. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, generating results that allow our clients to thrive.
