Cybercrime in Focus at World Police Summit 2025 Dubai
The World Police Summit 2025 in Dubai brought together global law enforcement leaders and security experts to address key international threats. A major focus was cybercrime, with experts highlighting its increasing complexity and global impact.
Held under the theme 'Beyond the Badge: Envision the Next Era of Policing,' the summit featured four specialised conferences and 12 main security tracks. Topics included cybercrime, drug control, border security, and human trafficking.
During a key session, Dr. Mohammed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, introduced the national 'Cyber Pulse' initiative. He announced that 2025 has been declared the 'Year of Community,' aiming to position the public as the first line of defence. 'Our focus remains on people,' he said. 'We are committed to equipping both tech professionals and youth with the skills to confront cyber threats, especially as we enter the era of the Fifth Industrial Revolution.'
He warned that technology, if misused, can pose serious threats. However, he reported that the UAE continues to strengthen its ability to detect, monitor, and neutralise cyberattacks.
In another session, experts examined cross-border cybercrime. Speakers from the UNODC, FBI, CyberPeace Foundation (India), and Nigerian Police discussed key obstacles to global collaboration. These included legal jurisdiction conflicts, privacy issues, and challenges in evidence collection. Real-world cases were shared to demonstrate how unified global action can succeed.
Aviation security risks were also discussed. Europol Commissioner Peter Nilsson cited insider threats, drone attacks, and laser interference as rising dangers. With over 400 commercial airports in Europe alone, he stressed that clear regulations and trained, cyber-aware personnel are vital. 'Every staff member must be cyber-aware,' he noted.
The summit also addressed drug trafficking, with a session opening with a short documentary outlining four pillars: prevention, treatment, early detection, and global cooperation.
Angela Me, Chief of Research and Trend Analysis at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), reported that over 100 million people globally use illicit drugs. She raised concerns over synthetic drugs, calling them a growing threat due to low production costs and high adaptability. She urged for unified global surveys and increased international cooperation.
Brigadier Khalid bin Muwaiza, Deputy Director of the General Department for Anti-Narcotics at Dubai Police, echoed this sentiment. He stressed the importance of bridging theory and practice and called for fast, coordinated responses to transnational crime.
The summit also featured: A panel on intelligence-led security for global events
A major exhibition with over 170 international exhibitors
Hosted by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB Live and supported by global entities like the IACP, UNODC, and Europol, the event showcased Dubai's role in shaping global security dialogue.
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