• Home
• News

Integrating Artificial Intelligence Technologies with Consumer Awareness

Abeer Khedr, Head of Cyber Security at the National Bank of Egypt (NBE), emphasized that customer awareness serves as the foundational pillar and first line of defense in protecting bank accounts over the coming period. She explained that the effectiveness of this awareness remains contingent upon backing it with advanced AI-powered fraud detection and prevention systems to keep pace with the rapid evolution of cyberattack techniques.

High-Level Panel Discussion at Cairo ICT 2026

These statements came during her participation in the "Cairo ICT 2026" conference and exhibition from within the Central Bank of Egypt's (CBE) pavilion. The panel was moderated by Dr. Ahmed Anas, Head of Cyber Security Governance at the CBE, alongside Dr. Haitham Ghalwash, Head of Cybersecurity at Coventry University. Khedr noted that the banking sector is already utilizing AI to analyze transaction patterns, stressing that continuous development of these systems must proceed alongside awareness campaigns to empower individuals against sophisticated fraud attempts that themselves leverage AI.

Strict Warnings Against Prolonged Calls and Phishing Messages

The Head of Cyber Security urged customers to immediately terminate suspicious phone calls, pointing out that extending the conversation provides fraudsters a greater opportunity to gather data and manipulate victims—noting that the bank has logged complaints involving scam calls lasting up to an hour. She also warned against opening phishing links or responding to unknown WhatsApp messages, urging users to block and report such chats immediately. In conclusion, she stressed that security cannot rely on the customer alone; it requires an integrated framework combining human awareness, operational procedures, and technological solutions.