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GISEC Global 2025 Launches OT Security Conference as Cyberattacks on Critical Infrastructure Surge 49%

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New dedicated track at Middle East and Africa’s largest cybersecurity event tackles AI-driven industrial threats, Zero Trust adoption and the $44.9B OT security boom

Dubai, UAE, 11th May 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, As operational technology (OT) cyberattacks skyrocketed 49% in 2024 – targeting power grids, oil & gas facilities, factories and transport systems – GISEC Global 2025 is responding with the launch of its pivotal new OT Security track at the Middle East and Africa’s largest cybersecurity event, currently taking place until 8th May at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The OT-focused conference on the second day of GISEC Global tackled evolving risks, system vulnerabilities and strategies for securing critical infrastructure. Other important considerations included AI in ICS/OT Security, Quantum Computing Threat, Protecting ICS and SCADA Systems & Digital Supply Chains in the presence of top CISOs, CIOs, OT security heads and policy-makers to fortify SCADA, ICS and digital supply chains.

The new addition arrives amid a perfect storm in the industry:

  • The global OT security market is projected to double to $44.9 billion by 2029 (Markets and Markets). 
  • According to research by IBM, the average cost of cyberattacks on organisations in the Middle East is $8.75 million, nearly double the global average.

Why OT Security? Why Now?

OT security encompasses advanced cybersecurity protocols designed to ensure the integrity, availability and safety of industrial control systems. As critical infrastructure faces escalating cyber threats, robust OT security is essential for maintaining continuity across the oil & gas, manufacturing, energy, transport and utility sectors. 

In late 2024, ransomware groups accelerated attacks on industrial sectors, with manufacturing, transportation and ICS operations prime targets. Only aggressive defence, intelligence sharing and cross-sector collaboration will safeguard critical infrastructure into 2025 and beyond.

On Wednesday, the audience heard from experts on the need for modern OT protection which delved into precision AI, leveraging machine learning, deep learning and large language models.

Discussing cybersecurity threats in the maritime industry, where ships can hold up to 10,000 passengers, are driven autonomously and each country has their own set of AI regulations, Simone Fortin, Global CISO Cruise Division at MSC Cruise Division, called for streamlined regulations that can be applied to all countries around the world.

He said: “For an industry like maritime, which is regulated by the UN, it is hard to interpret how to prevent AI threats for something critical like managing a ship. The UN gives the policy a broader scale, but then everything is regulated by bilateral agreements between the states and the regulators, and implemented by companies; but then, everything is defined by the fact that you could be in international waters. And ships can be owned by one entity, managed by another while sailing under a separate flag.”

Bridging the gap between AI-powered cyber defence and critical infrastructure resilience, the OT Security Track also put the spotlight the escalating IoT/IIoT threats in the oil & gas sector, featuring frontline insights from global CISOs defending the world’s most targeted industries.

Amal Krishna, Executive Director & CISO, ONGC, said: “To combat the surge in OT cyberattacks, businesses must prioritise asset visibility, network segmentation and secure remote access – but equally critical is breaking down silos between IT, OT and engineering teams. Cyber resilience in critical infrastructure isn’t just about technology, it’s about collaboration, continuous monitoring and a security-first culture.” 

Albert Vartic, Upstream OT Cybersecurity Officer, OMV Petrom, added: “Over the next five years, OT cybersecurity in the Middle East’s critical infrastructure will see significant evolution. The region’s rapid digitalisation has expanded the attack surface, making industrial systems more vulnerable – proactive measures like IEC 62443 adoption and cross-team collaboration will be essential to safeguard operational resilience.” 

Protect and plan against digital attacks

Exhibitors Ayman Al Issa (CPX) and Mohammed Mousa (CyberKnight) dissected the 49% surge in OT attacks, offering actionable defences for the energy, healthcare and manufacturing sectors.

Mousa, OT/xIoT Consultant at CyberKnight, warns that legacy OT systems weren’t built for today’s threats. 

He explained: “The escalation in intrusions is a consequence of accelerated digital transformation in industrial sectors. As organisations integrate IT and OT environments to improve efficiency and support the business, they inadvertently expand the threat surface. Furthermore, legacy systems remain in operation far beyond their intended lifespan and often lack native security controls. 

“Meanwhile, increased reliance on remote access, third-party integrations, and limited OT-specific cybersecurity governance heightens exposure. Simply put, organisations are moving faster than their security strategies are evolving.”

For businesses and governments to stay ahead of cyber criminals, Al Issa, Director – OT Cybersecurity at CPX, emphasised the importance of undertaking risk and threat assessments to understand what assets are at risk and how potential attackers might target them, sooner rather than later.

He said: “In today’s fast-shifting business landscape, organisations need to focus on identifying their most critical assets – those that are at the highest risk and that they care about the most, rather than trying to protect everything or plan for recovery across the entire business. As such, organisations should conduct in-depth threat and risk assessments specifically considering the unique characteristics of industrial control systems (ICS), including their physical consequences. 

“This involves mapping out interdependence, potential attack vectors and consequences of downtime. Using threat intelligence and aligning with frameworks like CIS ICS Controls can help organisations monitor suspicious activity, manage vulnerabilities and create tailored incident response plans. 

“Once this is clear, more targeted and practical defence measures can be put in place and continuously tested, using threat intelligence to stay ahead of evolving threats. Risk assessments should be continuous, evolving with technological changes and emerging threats and should be validated through regular penetration testing.”

Amr Elsayed, Regional OT/ICS Cybersecurity Specialist at CyberKnight, agrees, saying technology, collaboration and workforce training should be key priorities for businesses.

He said: “To enhance OT security resilience against rising cyber threats, businesses should adopt a Zero Trust approach, enforcing least-privilege access and micro-segmentation to limit breach impact. Advanced real-time monitoring and threat intelligence sharing (ISACs, public-private partnerships) are critical for proactive defences. 

“Additionally, maintaining accurate OT asset inventories, conducting OT-specific incident response drills and implementing risk-based vulnerability management (compensating controls, tailored patching) will strengthen security postures. Finally, OT-focused employee training ensures a security-aware workforce.

“By prioritising these measures – spanning technology, collaboration and workforce readiness – organisations can safeguard critical infrastructure, mitigate disruptions and build long-term cyber resilience in OT environments.”

Drafting the legislation playbook

With Middle East nations rapidly adopting digitisation into their day-to-day practices, the region is becoming a target for cyberattacks. However, the experts expect a number of measures to be put in place to protect cybersecurity infrastructure, and GISEC 2025 could be where policymakers and tech giants will draft the playbook.

Al Issa added: “Over the next five years, we can expect a major shift toward structured, regulation-driven cybersecurity approaches. AI-driven OT threat detection, the widespread adoption of Zero Trust principles and deeper integration of compliance frameworks will define the regional OT cybersecurity landscape. Stricter regulatory frameworks and compliance mandates region-wide will push for better security practices. 

Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, GISEC Global 2025 is hosted by the UAE Cybersecurity Council under the theme of ‘Securing an AI-Powered Future’, and supported by Dubai Electronic Security Center (DESC), UAE Ministry of Interior and Dubai Police.

To learn more about GISEC Global 2025, visit www.gisec.ae

About GISEC Global

GISEC Global, Middle East & Africa’s largest and most impactful cybersecurity event, will return to Dubai World Trade Centre for its 14th edition taking place from 6th to 8th May 2025, under the overarching theme of “Securing an AI-Powered Future.” Following the monumental success of 2024, the super-connector event for the region’s cybersecurity industry will bring together over 25,000 attendees, 750 exhibiting brands and 350-plus speakers hailing from over 160 countries. GISEC Global stands as the unrivalled platform for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. More information: www.gisec.ae

About Dubai World Trade Centre

A global business facilitator since 1979, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is home to the region’s leading purpose-built convention and exhibition centre. DWTC provides a platform for connecting people, products, innovation and ideas from around the world through a dynamic calendar of international trade exhibitions and its own roster of sector leading mega events. As a designated free zone, complemented by award-winning commercial real estate, DWTC plays an integral role in Dubai and the region’s growth story. Since its inauguration, DWTC has hosted over 6,000 events, with an estimated economic output of AED 248 billion, attracting over 38 million business visitors to Dubai.

Building on this legacy, DWTC’s second flagship venue, the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), stands as a premier destination for prominent national and international mega events. Strategically aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, DEC’s recently announced AED 10 billion expansion is integral to Expo City Dubai’s vision of becoming a global business hub for exhibitions and events. 

Press information and photographic material: click here 

Media Contact:

Jane Oneill – PR Manager

Jane.oneill@dwtc.com 

 

Ahmad Khalloudi – PR Manager

Ahmadkhalloudi@sevenmedia.ae

 

Follow GISEC Global on social media: Facebook | X | Instagram | LinkedIn | Youtube 

Hashtag: #GISECGlobal

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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Press Release

Dolls and Accessories Expands into the United States Bringing Handcrafted Doll Products to a New Audience

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Australia, 15th May 2025 – Dolls and Accessories, a beloved online destination for premium doll products, is thrilled to announce its official expansion into the United States. U.S. customers can now shop the full collection of beautifully crafted dolls, clothing, furniture, and accessories directly at https://dollsandaccessories.com.

Renowned for its attention to detail, child-safe materials, and timeless design, Dolls and Accessories has been a favorite among parents, collectors, and gift-givers worldwide. With this launch, American families can now enjoy faster shipping, enhanced customer service, and exclusive U.S.-only collections designed to delight young imaginations.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring our passion for craftsmanship and play to families across the U.S.,” said [Founder’s Name], founder of Dolls and Accessories. “Every item we offer is thoughtfully curated or handmade with love, and we can’t wait to share that joy with our new American customers.”

Highlights of the U.S. launch include:

  • Full access to the entire catalog of dolls, outfits, playsets, and décor
  • Domestic shipping for faster, more affordable delivery
  • Dedicated U.S. customer support for seamless assistance
  • Special edition releases celebrating the American launch

Dolls and Accessories invites everyone—from curious kids to lifelong doll lovers—to explore the new online experience tailored for the U.S. market.

For more information, visit https://dollsandaccessories.com or follow @dollsandaccessories on social media.

Media Contact

Organization: Dolls and Accessories

Contact Person: Candice Sonderup

Website: https://dollsandaccessories.com.au/

Email: Send Email

Country:Australia

Release id:27856

The post Dolls and Accessories Expands into the United States Bringing Handcrafted Doll Products to a New Audience appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Everyone Can Join on Equal Terms CROSS Public Token Sale Set to Launch

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The blockchain gaming platform CROSS is preparing to launch its public token sale on May 15 at 10:00 UTC, which will run for one full week.

Unlike typical crypto projects, this sale emphasizes fairness and openness, allowing even newcomers to Web3 to participate with ease.

A Public Sale with No Privileges or Special Access

What sets the CROSS public token sale apart is its strict commitment to fairness: the sale is offered at the exact same price as the previous private round, with no discounts or preferential treatment given to insiders or affiliated participants.

This transparent structure reflects CROSS’s core values of equity and trust in building a sustainable ecosystem.

A total of 96 million CROSS tokens, representing 9.6% of the total supply of 1 billion, will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis at a fixed price of $0.10 per token.

NEXUS CEO Chang Hyun-Guk previously announced his intention to purchase $2 million worth of CROSS tokens at the same price during the private round. More recently, he transferred approximately $350,000 worth of stablecoins to his Binance wallet, signaling his clear intent to participate in the public sale under the same conditions as all other participants.

Accessible to All: Simplified Participation

To lower the barrier for entry, the CROSS public sale supports Binance Wallet, MetaMask, and other decentralized wallets that run on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP-20).

Supported payment methods include USDT, USDC, and USD1, all on the BEP-20 standard.

While a small amount of $BNB is required for transaction fees, users who complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification and wallet connection will be airdropped a small amount of BNB to help cover these fees—making the purchase process virtually frictionless.

Just Three Steps to Join

Joining the public sale involves only three simple steps. Ahead of the sale, users can visit the official site https://crosstoken.sale to:

1. Connect their wallet and complete KYC verification, 

2. Choose a payment token (USDT, USDC, or USD1 via BNB Chain), and 

3. Confirm the purchase.

All tokens purchased during the public sale will be distributed at a later time through a Token Generation Event (TGE). Unsold tokens will be permanently burned.

For more detailed information about the CROSS public sale, please refer to the official website.
– Official site for the CROSS sale:  https://crosstoken.sale

https://x.com/cross_protocol

 

Media Contact

Organization: CROSS Protocol

Contact Person: Jason Kim

Website: https://crosstoken.sale/

Email: Send Email

Country:Virgin Islands (British)

Release id:27846

The post Everyone Can Join on Equal Terms CROSS Public Token Sale Set to Launch appeared first on King Newswire. This content is provided by a third-party source.. King Newswire makes no warranties or representations in connection with it. King Newswire is a press release distribution agency and does not endorse or verify the claims made in this release. If you have any complaints or copyright concerns related to this article, please contact the company listed in the ‘Media Contact’ section

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Press Release

Echo Launches Worldwide and Starts Exclusive Public Sale for the ECHO Token

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Douglas, Isle of Man, 15th May 2025, ZEX PR WIREEcho, a revolutionary centralized crypto exchange, officially launched worldwide on May 15, marking a historical event for the digital asset trading landscape. On the same day, the platform started hosting a public sale for the ECHO token on its website. The team allocated 2% (20M) of the total supply of 1 billion ECHO tokens for this sale in an effort to accelerate the project’s development.

Echo is a community-focused centralized cryptocurrency exchange (CEX) seeking to deliver a different user experience than most CEXs. The platform expands beyond the limitations of a regular exchange to build a powerful ecosystem with numerous lucrative opportunities for its users.

Echo rewards active participants, whether beginners or professional traders, allowing users to benefit directly from the platform’s growth. This innovative approach has enabled Echo to secure $2.5 million in support from strategic investors during the early funding rounds.

In the wake of Echo’s official launch, Sam Dorrer, Chief Executive Officer at Echo, commented on the platform’s community-centric philosophy:

“Our mission is to create a cryptocurrency exchange that truly prioritizes its users. Echo is designed to be more than just a trading platform—it’s a dynamic ecosystem that fosters long-term engagement and participation.”

Echo welcomes new and seasoned traders, dividing its services into two convenient platforms – EchoX and Echo Pro.

EchoX caters to users taking their first steps in digital asset trading. It provides an intuitive dashboard with easy navigation features and helpful tips. Other supportive features include deep liquidity and high-speed trade execution, which simplify crypto trading for beginners.

Echo Pro is more suitable for advanced and institutional traders, delivering a unique experience to insightful users. This platform has a modular design and provides advanced trading tools, such as real-time analytics, market insights, and strategies, to help traders make better-informed decisions.

EchoX and Echo Pro users benefit from a minimal fee of only 0.1% per transaction.

The ECHO Token

The ECHO token is at the center of the Echo ecosystem. It is a real yield token built on Ethereum that features robust tokenomics. Most importantly, it has a fixed total supply of 1 billion tokens subject to a deflationary mechanism.

Notably, Echo allocates 10% of the daily revenue from EchoX and Echo Pro to repurchasing ECHO tokens on the open market. It will then burn the repurchased tokens to increase scarcity and drive ECHO’s value in the long run.

  • Holding ECHO tokens gives users several perks:
  • Fee discounts
  • Access to premium trading tools
  • Early access to new services
  • Governance rights

Echo is also developing the Echo Foundation, a pool dedicated to funding growth, strategic partnerships, and other governance initiatives. ECHO token holders will have an important say in which projects receive funding through the Echo Foundation.

Rewards and Security

Another aspect that sets Echo apart from other centralized exchanges is its rewarding approach to users. For example, the platform distributes 50% of the fees generated as stablecoin (USDC) yield daily, ensuring the community is rewarded at the same pace as Echo’s growth.

Echo abides by the industry’s highest security standards, ensuring optimal protection for its users and their assets. Some of its maximum safety features include multi-layered encryption, biometric authentication, robust KYC/AML checks, and institutional-grade wallet infrastructure.

The Echo Roadmap

Echo’s official launch and the start of the ECHO token public sale complete the project’s 1st development phase. The rapidly growing Echo community can now look forward to the following milestones on Echo’s ambitious roadmap:

Phase 2

  • The introduction of Echo Pro for advanced trading with cutting-edge tools.
  • The expansion of yield generation models, the integration of trading bots, and additional digital asset services.
  • Echo Elite’s release is tied to Echo Pro and EchoX.
  • An ECHO Token Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) and a USDC – Echo Trading Pair Launch.
  • The establishment of the Echo Community Foundation.
  • The Community Governance system for the platform

Phase 3

  • Echo will expand into Real World Assets (RWAs) trading, leveraging tokenization to unlock traditional asset classes.
  • Full integration of advanced protocols (e.g., peer-to-contract) to enhance collateralized borrowing and lending capabilities.
  • Neobank Rails that will enable seamless fiat-to-token conversions with integrated banking services
  • Fractionalized Assets & Multi-Class Asset Choices, such as tokenizing commodities, stocks, and real estate
  • Collateralized and decentralized lending and borrowing capabilities through the platform’s peer-to-contract protocol
  • Offshore & Digitized Trust Structures will expand custody solutions via the Echo Elite framework.
  • An Integrated Launchpad supports onboarding promising new projects to further diversify and strengthen the Echo ecosystem.
  • Echo will also open the door to the platform’s first tokenized Securities offerings, commodities, property, and private companies.
  • Derivatives Trading
  • Social Trading features
  • Echo Passive Mutual Token
  • Crypto Fund Tokens
  • VISA Cards

Phase 4

  • Full integration of all platform modules
  • Comprehensive Real World Asset (RWA) management and brokerage capabilities

About Echo

Echo operates as a licensed Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) under the Regulatory Framework of the Isle of Man Financial Services Authority.

The platform’s partnership with the law firm Simcocks/JurisTrust allows it to offer Trust and Corporate Service Provision (TCSP) – a category that incorporates a PCC. This translates into tax advantages for EchoElite Traders, which means 0% capital gains tax and 0% corporate tax for crypto investments. As a result, EchoElite Traders can keep more of their gains while accelerating the ability to compound their portfolio.

The ECHO token public sale is live now on Echo’s website. The event follows the “first-come, first-served” rule, catering to participants who have already completed the registration process. Those who miss out may have to resort to secondary markets, where prices will vary.

For ongoing updates and community engagement, follow Echo on X (formerly Twitter), Discord, and Telegram.

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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