Free streaming sites may be a gateway to malware

The Cyber ​​Security Council of the UAE Government stressed the importance of strengthening security measures during free electronic broadcasting and downloading operations, to avoid users falling victim to malicious programs, noting that using reliable internet platforms to watch and download film materials and listen to music contributes to maintaining the safety of users’ devices and personal data.

The Council called for adherence to technical and behavioral measures that prevent exposure to malicious software, piracy, or violation of privacy, stressing that fraudsters are now creating messages that appear reliable and using advanced technologies, which requires users to be constantly cautious before using any website or application to download movies or music.

The Council stressed the need to verify the accuracy of information and the reliability of websites and links before clicking on them, and to ensure that electronic devices are protected using specialized programs that stop malware.

The Council warned against relying on free streaming sites, which does not necessarily mean reliability or security, as some sites may offer free content, but in return they may exploit users’ personal data or sell it for a fee, which puts users before complex challenges in protecting their data, and requires the adoption of defensive tools and techniques based on knowledge, awareness, and understanding of the magnitude of various risks and threats.

The Cyber ​​Security Council explained, in statements to the Emirates News Agency, WAM, that confronting these electronic risks begins with the individual, by enhancing cyber culture and awareness of the risks associated with cyberspace, noting that accessing untrusted websites or downloading film or music materials from unsafe sources may result in repercussions that affect data, lead to a violation of privacy, or expose devices to malicious programs or viruses that may steal user data, or be linked to ransomware viruses, and the matter may develop into complete fraud, which requires vigilance and caution.

The Council indicated that 216 billion visits to piracy sites were recorded globally by the end of 2024, in addition to the fact that more than 90% of music files are circulated through illegal networks, while 70% of users do not realize that free streaming sites may constitute a gateway to malicious programs, as about a million computers have been hacked as a result of visiting illegal streaming sites.

The Cyber ​​Security Council provided a set of advice to avoid falling victim to malware, viruses and other risks while browsing, downloading, watching movies or listening to music. It focused on the necessity of avoiding clicking on unreliable links, verifying the information contained in messages or sponsored advertisements, using official and reliable websites, in addition to activating protection programs to remove threats and prevent viruses.

The Council stressed that digital safety in cyberspace has become a major challenge in light of the rapid technological development, and that these preventive measures contribute, in addition to government efforts, to confronting the current digital challenges and keeping pace with rapid technical developments.

It is worth noting that the “Cyber ​​Pulse” awareness campaign, launched by the Cyber ​​Security Council in its second year in a row, comes as part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to build a secure cyberspace that protects users from growing digital risks and keeps pace with rapid technical developments, within the framework of a comprehensive national vision that aims to enhance confidence in the country’s digital system, establish a culture of cybersecurity, raise the level of digital awareness among families and individuals, and enhance cybersecurity practices to ensure the safety and privacy of citizens and residents in the era of accelerating digital transformation.