Etisalat joins global alliance for computer, Net security

ABU DHABI - Etisalat is the first corporation in the Middle East and Africa to obtain membership of the world-respected Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams (First), a global alliance of Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRT) which collaborates and shares information to protect members against online threats, viruses and hacking.

By (By a staff reporter)

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Published: Tue 18 May 2004, 10:02 AM

Last updated: Thu 16 Nov 2023, 10:16 AM

Etisalat's commitment to Internet and computer security has secured the Corporation's entry into `First', more than 100-member community which shares information, alerts and jointly coordinates incident responses and security teams around the world, from an elite group of member companies.

Khalid Al Kaf, Etisalat's General Manager Network Services says, "Security is a global issue and Etisalat is taking the lead in the Middle East and Africa by joining `First'. Alliance members use their combined knowledge, skills and experience to promote a safer and more secure global electronic environment.


"Our CSIRT team was scrutinised by `First' for its ability to handle threat situations and to add value to other members. We are proud that Etisalat's proven commitment to security was rewarded with our membership into this prestigious alliance, which builds on the creation of our Information Security Team in 2001 and our efforts to achieve international standard BS77999," says Al Kaf.

Abdulla Hashim, Manager UAE, says, "Etisalat will work initially with the government and law-enforcement agencies to ensure our security arrangements protect the UAE at the highest level and we will then share our experiences with businesses and residential customers.

"Etisalat now stands as an equal partner among the world's best known service provider companies. Together, the information sharing and early response network will quickly alert us and other members to emerging threats and allow us to prepare appropriate responses. In short, that means safer, more reassured Internet and computer use for UAE businesses and residents," adds Abdulla Hashim.

"Given that Internet viruses and hacker attacks often occur out of the blue, global alliances such as `First' give us vital hours, minutes or even seconds of advance warning, allowing us to be prepared at the first instance," said Mr Al Kaf.

Etisalat's membership of `First' is testament to its long-standing commitment to security issues.

Ahmed Bin Ali, Etisalat's Manager Public Relations says, "Etisalat's industry and technological experience is among the world's most advanced and reflects the strong commitment of Etisalat's national workforce to develop and protect the UAE's communications infrastructure."


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