UBF launched TASHARUK - the first Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2017. This initiative aims to aggregate, correlate, and analyze threat data from multiple sources in real-time to support defensive actions. TASHARUK aims to enhance threat intelligence, showcase the value of collaboration, and provide ongoing training. TASHARUK helps to order and interpret the ever-growing amount of threat data available to organizations from internal and third-party sources.
UBF launched TASHARUK initiative in 2017 with the aim of equipping banks with the necessary tools and intelligence to better identify, detect, and respond to cyber-attacks. The platform, powered by Anomali - provider of market-leading threat intelligence platforms, allows sharing of cyber threat intelligence using standard protocols such as STIX/TAXII. It also allows submission of artifacts such as Indicators of Compromise (IOCs), Threat Actor Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) and information on emerging threats.
The platform allows banks to optionally share details of internal investigations or even summaries of incidents observed, including relevant data that can be used by other banks for early detection and protection against similar threats. Data shared on TASHARUK include techniques and tactics used by cybercriminals, IP addresses and domain names used in cyber-attacks, hashes of files found in malware infections, attempts to deliver malware through phishing emails, as well as details of cyber incident investigations. Additionally, it enables member banks to share data anonymously. However, no customer data or personally identifiable information (PII) is shared using the platform.
Currently, there are more than 20 banks and over 100 users registered on the cyber threat intelligence sharing platform.
With the launch of TASHARUK, UBF was able to streamline anti-cybercrime efforts of participating banks and inform them about potential malicious threats in order to enhance their defense system.
