Energy Saudi oil minister says energy sector vulnerable to cyberattacks By Pramod Kumar November 10, 2022, 5:46 AM REUTERS/ Ahmed Yosri Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Saudi energy minister says the motives behind these attacks could be anything The energy sector is increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks and international agreements are needed to thwart the growing risk, Arab News reported, citing Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman. He said governments and companies faced a “collective danger,” but the kingdom was ready for such attacks. Calling for global collaboration to help defeat the hackers at a conference in Riyadh, the minister said that international agreements are needed to mitigate cyberattacks just like the world is doing against terrorism. The motives behind these attacks could be “anything political, ideological, etc., and we cannot afford to be attacked without being ready.” However, he stressed the importance of not being in a race with one another, competing on which country has the right capabilities to defend itself. Meanwhile, Fahad Al-Jutaily, CEO of cybersecurity firm sirar by stc, warned an attack is being launched somewhere on the planet every 11 seconds. Register now: It’s easy and free AGBI registered members can access even more of our unique analysis and perspective on business and economics in the Middle East. Why sign uP Exclusive weekly email from our editor-in-chief Personalised weekly emails for your preferred industry sectors Read and download our insight packed white papers Access to our mobile app Prioritised access to live events Register for free Already registered? Sign in I’ll register later
