Gulf Bank recognizes the Ministry of Interior’s role in strengthening cybersecurity awareness and protecting the community in Kuwait

Gulf Bank organized a cybersecurity awareness seminar to strengthen preparedness for evolving cyber threats and support the protection of customer information. Held under the theme “Cybersecurity Is a Shared Responsibility,” the seminar marked Cybersecurity Awareness Month and reinforced the Bank’s ongoing support for the Central Bank of Kuwait’s “Let’s Be Aware” (Diraya) campaign. The event brought together more than 100 executive leaders from across the Bank, including Acting Chief Executive Officer Sami Mahfouz.

Gulf Bank expressed its appreciation to the Ministry of Interior for its continued efforts to strengthen cybersecurity awareness and protect the community in Kuwait from digital threats. The Bank also thanked Lieutenant Colonel Saud Anwar AlWazzan, a cybercrime officer at the Ministry , for his insightful keynote address and contribution to the seminar.

Speakers included Dr. Basil Alothman, Founder and Managing Director of Kuwait Hackers LLC; Eng. Husain A. Alnakkas, Cybersecurity Consultant; Iain Swaine, Senior Consultant at Axon Technologies; and Andrea Di Bari, Chief Technology Officer. They were joined by Mr. Ross McNaughton, Chief Information Security Officer at Gulf Bank.

Gulf Bank welcomed the high level of cybersecurity awareness among its employees, recognizing its importance as rapid technological advances enable increasingly sophisticated fraud and scams. The Bank emphasized the need to sustain this awareness through continuous education and vigilance, with every employee sharing responsibility for protecting customer information and maintaining secure banking operations.

The seminar examined emerging cyber risks, developments in digital fraud, and their implications for financial institutions. Discussions emphasized the importance of understanding how threats evolve and maintaining the knowledge and preparedness needed to respond effectively. Contributions from public and private sector specialists reinforced the value of collaboration in addressing these challenges.

The impact of artificial intelligence on cybersecurity was a central topic. Speakers explored how AI can strengthen security systems, alongside the risks associated with its misuse in cyberattacks. These developments reinforce the importance of a proactive approach to digital risk as financial institutions continue to expand their digital services.

The participation of executive leaders reflects the importance of embedding cybersecurity awareness throughout the organization. The annual seminar provides a forum for continuous learning and cooperation between departments, supporting a common understanding of digital risks and each employee’s responsibility for protecting customers, colleagues, and the Bank’s operations.

Gulf Bank continues to strengthen its cybersecurity framework through investment in advanced security technologies, stronger governance and risk management, and ongoing employee training and awareness programs. These efforts support its commitment to protecting customer data, maintaining business continuity, and delivering secure and innovative digital banking services.

Cybersecurity remains a strategic priority for Gulf Bank and an essential component of its digital transformation. The Bank continues to develop its technical capabilities and employee expertise in parallel, applying global best practices to strengthen preparedness and resilience. This approach supports the secure delivery of digital services while maintaining the trust of customers and partners.

Through its continued support for Diraya and initiatives such as this seminar, Gulf Bank emphasizes the value of collaboration in creating a safer digital environment. These efforts contribute to confidence in digital banking and support sustainable digital transformation for the benefit of customers, the community, and the wider banking sector.