Time for a robust cybersecurity strategy to safeguard Jordan’s economy

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Jordan has a growing economy that is heavily reliant on technology and innovation. The country has made significant progress in recent years, with GDP growth averaging around 2 percent per year. However, Jordan still faces many challenges that could hinder its economic growth. اضافة اعلان

Cyberattacks have become a major concern for governments and businesses worldwide, and Jordan is no exception to this trend, as the country has experienced several high-profile cyberattacks in recent years. These attacks have had a significant impact on the Kingdom’s economy, affecting businesses and individuals alike.

Major cyberattacks in JordanIn 2018, a group of hackers targeted several government websites, including those of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates and the Ministry of Interior. The attack resulted in the theft of sensitive information and caused significant disruption to government operations.

Then, in 2019, another group of hackers targeted several banks in Jordan, stealing millions of dollars from customer accounts. The attack was carried out using sophisticated malware that allowed the hackers to bypass security measures and gain access to sensitive financial information.

Cyberattacks can cause significant disruption to business operations by hijacking critical systems or stealing sensitive information. This disruption can result in lost productivity, increased costs, and damage to a company's reputation. Furthermore, it can lead to a loss of customer trust in businesses by exposing sensitive information or causing disruptions to services. This loss of trust is often reflected in decreased revenues and long-term damage to a company's reputation.
Cyberattacks can cause significant disruption to business operations by hijacking critical systems or stealing sensitive information. This disruption can result in lost productivity, increased costs, and damage to a company's reputation.
As a result of cyberattacks, businesses may need to invest in additional cybersecurity measures to protect their systems and data. The cost of cybersecurity can be significant, particularly for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have the resources to invest in robust cybersecurity measures.

Minimizing riskTo mitigate the impact of cyberattacks on the Jordanian economy, several potential solutions could be implemented. The Jordanian government could increase its investment in cybersecurity infrastructure. This investment could include funding for research into new cybersecurity technologies and increased support for SMEs.

Moreover, Jordan could improve collaboration between the public and private sectors. The government could work more closely with the private sector to develop effective cybersecurity strategies that address the unique needs of different industries. This collaboration could include sharing information about threats and vulnerabilities as well as developing joint initiatives to promote cybersecurity awareness.
Public-private initiatives could protect critical infrastructure, including power grids, transportation systems, and communication networks. By safeguarding these systems from cyber threats, Jordan can ensure that its economic activities are not disrupted by attacks.
Significantly, public-private initiatives could protect critical infrastructure, including power grids, transportation systems, and communication networks. By safeguarding these systems from cyber threats, Jordan can ensure that its economic activities are not disrupted by attacks.

Time for a strategyIt is essential for Jordan to develop a robust cybersecurity strategy to protect sensitive data, including personal information, financial data, and intellectual property. In this way, the Kingdom can ensure that its citizens and businesses are not at risk of identity theft or financial fraud.

A good strategy will also provide many benefits to Jordan's economy, such as boosting investor confidence, as investors are more likely to invest in a country that has strong cybersecurity measures in place. Increased investment in Jordan's economy would then help create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
A good strategy will… provide many benefits to Jordan's economy, such as boosting investor confidence, as investors are more likely to invest in a country that has strong cybersecurity measures in place
By developing a strong cybersecurity strategy, Jordan can protect its critical infrastructure, boost investor confidence, protect sensitive data, and enhance its international reputation. Therefore, it is crucial for the government of Jordan to invest in developing such strategy to guard the country's economy from cyberattacks and other online threats.


Hamza Alakaleek is a lawyer and tax consultant holding graduate degrees in International Political Economy, International Business Law, and Law and Technology from Yarmouk University and University de Montreal, with a focus on internet of things, artificial intelligence, and data protection.



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