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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