What are you highlighting at this year’s Black Hat MEA?
We will have live demos of Palo Alto Networks’ best-in-class cybersecurity platforms representing: Cortex (AI-based security operations), and Prisma Cloud (cloud security), and Prisma SASE (cloud security from remote areas).
AI has transformed the technology landscape in the past few years, with its impact felt across all sectors. It has had a profound impact on cybersecurity, creating new and complex threats while also expanding the threat surface. It is vital for organisations to use AI to stay ahead of these threats. Earlier in 2024, Palo Alto Networks announced Precision AI, a proprietary innovation that combines machine learning and deep learning with the accessibility of generative AI to deliver security that can outpace adversaries and more proactively protect networks and infrastructure.
What makes Saudi Arabia a pivotal force in driving cybersecurity innovation and evolution across the region?
Saudi Arabia has been a strong force driving regional cybersecurity innovation. With Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom has increased its focus on technology, digital transformation and the development of advanced digital infrastructure. The government understands the need for world-class cybersecurity and established The National Cybersecurity Authority (NCA) to manage matters related to cybersecurity in KSA.
With strong government support for cybersecurity, investment in infrastructure, and collaboration with global technology leaders, the Kingdom is becoming a key player shaping the future of cybersecurity in the Middle East.
What opportunities do you foresee for cybersecurity innovators in the Kingdom?
At Palo Alto Networks, we recognise the vast opportunities for cybersecurity innovators in Saudi Arabia, in line with the government’s strong mandate on digital transformation and national security. The Kingdom is looking to diversify its economy and develop public services, such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation and tourism.
To achieve these targets, companies and governmental organisations need to navigate a rising number of cybersecurity challenges – especially as the range and sophistication of attacks are likely to increase with the rapid development of the country’s infrastructure.
Saudi Arabia has already made important regulatory steps in these areas, announcing Data Cybersecurity Controls, Operational Technology Cybersecurity Controls, and passing the Personal Data Protection Law, set to be enforced since September 2024. This regulatory progress will need to be matched by technological innovation and investment.
As a trusted provider of cybersecurity services to customers in Saudi Arabia, Palo Alto Networks is committed to delivering and innovating the best technology and services to protect and enable the nation’s digital future.
By launching a new cloud location in Saudi Arabia, Palo Alto Networks is now also providing customers with local and high-performance access to its industry-leading cybersecurity capabilities in the Kingdom and across the region. This will help customers meet their data residency needs.
How can organisations balance leveraging AI and machine learning in cybersecurity while addressing ethical concerns and ensuring compliance with local regulations?
It’s important for organisations to balance AI and machine learning within cybersecurity by implementing transparent and ethical frameworks that prioritise privacy and compliance. By aligning with local regulations and continuously auditing AI models, companies can ensure responsible use of these technologies. Palo Alto Networks enables customers to achieve this through services such as Precision AI, which gives organisations access to cutting-edge AI solutions that are safe and fully compliant with local regulations and requirements.
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