In a strategic move aimed at securing the digital space and enhancing consumer confidence, the National Cybersecurity Authority, in cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce and the E-Commerce Council, launched a national awareness campaign under the slogan “Order Safely.” The campaign aims to build a strong cybersecurity culture that contributes to promoting safe online shopping practices among all segments of society, including consumers and service providers, and encourages them to adopt best practices to protect themselves from emerging risks.
General context: The growth of e-commerce and cybersecurity challenges
The launch of this campaign comes at a time when Saudi Arabia, and indeed the entire world, is witnessing an unprecedented boom in the e-commerce sector. With the accelerating pace of digital transformation, a cornerstone of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, online shopping has become an integral part of daily life for millions of users. This tremendous growth, which accelerated significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has opened up vast economic opportunities but has also brought with it increasing security challenges. Cybercriminals have exploited this shift to develop their fraudulent methods, including phishing attacks, fake online stores, and malware designed to steal shoppers' personal and financial data.
The importance of the campaign and its expected impact
The importance of the “Order Safely” campaign lies in its proactive national initiative aimed at building a knowledge-based safety net for users. Locally, the campaign is expected to contribute to reducing incidents of financial fraud and identity theft, thereby enhancing consumer confidence in digital platforms and fostering healthy and sustainable growth in the digital economy. It also supports e-commerce businesses by raising awareness among their customers, thus mitigating operational risks and reinforcing the reputation of the Saudi market as a safe environment for commerce.
Regionally and internationally, this initiative reflects the Kingdom's commitment to solidifying its position as a leading regional hub for cybersecurity and digital transformation. Building a secure and reliable e-commerce environment not only attracts local investment but also makes the Saudi market more appealing to global companies and international investors, enhancing the Kingdom's reputation as a nation that prioritizes the digital security of its citizens.
Campaign themes and activities
The National Cybersecurity Authority explained that the campaign will include various awareness initiatives and activities to ensure it reaches the widest possible audience. These activities include holding specialized sessions to educate consumers and service providers, issuing a comprehensive guide to safe online shopping, and providing educational materials through major e-commerce platforms. An intensive media campaign will also be launched across social media platforms under the hashtag “#OrderSafely” to raise awareness on vital topics such as:
- Phishing: How to identify fraudulent messages and websites.
- Two-factor authentication: The importance of enabling this feature as an additional layer of protection for accounts.
- App security and updates: It is necessary to download apps from their official sources and update them regularly.
- Safe browsing: Use secure internet networks and avoid making purchases over public networks.
The Authority is the competent body for cybersecurity in the Kingdom, and the national reference in its affairs. It aims to enhance it in order to protect the vital interests of the state and its national security, and to build a safe and reliable Saudi cyberspace that enables growth and prosperity.
