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Cybersecurity in 2071: AI Predictions, Legal Frameworks and Megatrends

A new report by KPMG Lower Gulf in collaboration with the UAE Cyber Security Council predicts that by 2071, artificial intelligence (AI) will have the ability to predict human actions and interfere with shaping behaviors. According to the report, machines will be able to anticipate the needs of individuals and will become the new currency. Additionally, weapons will become smart enough to target a single person in a crowd, and robots will be able to take food orders at restaurants or assist at medical clinics.

The report, titled ‘Imagine If’, presents plausible scenarios of how the world could function by 2071 and offers guidance on how to develop policies around these predictions. Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Head of the UAE Cybersecurity Council, revealed that the country is working on a cybersecurity vision that incorporates a progressive legal framework with new laws to address advanced forms of deception and criminal activity in the digital space.

As the UAE approaches its centennial in 2071, the goal is to leverage technology to optimize outcomes for humanity. The report highlights several imaginary scenarios, including concerns about differentiating between truth and fiction due to developments in immersive virtual reality, deep fake, and behavioral manipulation technology. There are also predictions of increased privacy concerns and new manifestations of fraud, blackmail, extortion, and bribery.

Currently, the UAE has 16 policies in place to address various issues, including IoT, information assurance, and blockchain. However, there are plans to introduce more policies, particularly related to data privacy, AI, and cloud. The report also predicts that the UAE’s population will grow to 10.9 million in the next 20 years, with Dubai’s population doubling following a post-pandemic immigration wave.

According to Tim Wood, Partner and Head of Cyber Security at KPMG LG, one of the key takeaways from the report is the significant impact that disruptive technologies will have on cybersecurity and privacy, emphasizing the need for early engagement to address these technologies. Wood also stressed the importance of developing a legal framework for a new world of hybrid people, AI, and tech, as technology and the landscape of data collection continue to evolve.

The report aligns with the UAE’s Centennial 2071 vision, focusing on a future-focused government, excellent education, a diversified knowledge economy, and a happy and cohesive society. Overall, the report emphasizes the need for proactive policy development to address emerging technologies and ensure cybersecurity in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.