The Evolution of Cybercrime: Key Insights from Group-IB's High-Tech Crime Trends Report 2026

In the heart of the UAE, a significant revelation emerges from Group-IB, a trailblazer in cybersecurity technologies. Today, they unveiled their **High-Tech Crime Trends Report 2026**, a document that meticulously outlines the shifting paradigms of cyber threats. As our digital landscape continues to evolve, the report starkly emphasizes the alarming rise of supply chain attacks, which have now become the predominant force reshaping the global cyber threat environment.

The Shift Towards Ecosystem-Wide Compromise

Transitioning from isolated breaches to more sophisticated, ecosystem-wide compromises, cybercriminals are now targeting trusted vendors, open-source software, and SaaS platforms. This evolution signifies a dramatic shift in tactics; attackers leverage these trusted relationships to infiltrate not just one organization but a network of interconnected entities. By exploiting vulnerabilities within these systems, hackers gain inherited access to hundreds of downstream organizations, presenting a truly daunting challenge for cybersecurity professionals.

In the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META), the report highlights a stark increase in phishing attacks, with internet services, financial institutions, and logistics sectors bearing the brunt. These sectors account for a staggering 52.49%, 28.50%, and 11.20% of targeted breaches, respectively. While phishing may often initiate with individual users, the cascading effects of compromised organizations can ripple through entire ecosystems, affecting customers and partners alike. Consequently, the necessity for robust security measures at every level of an organization has never been more critical.

The Rise of Initial Access Brokers (IABs) and Ransomware

Moreover, the report sheds light on the burgeoning role of Initial Access Brokers (IABs) in the regional threat landscape. In 2025 alone, Group-IB documented over 200 cases of corporate access related to META organizations that were publicly advertised for sale. This disturbing trend underscores the increasing demand for stolen credentials and footholds—access points that cybercriminals exploit to launch ransomware attacks and espionage campaigns.

Ransomware activity, particularly in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, has surged, with over 100 reported incidents in 2025. The most affected sectors include real estate, financial services, and healthcare. Group-IB’s findings reveal that ransomware groups have evolved into industrialized ecosystems, prioritizing upstream access to maximize both operational disruption and financial impact. Dmitry Volkov, the CEO of Group-IB, aptly states, "Cybercrime is no longer defined by single breaches. It is defined by cascading failures of trust." This sentiment encapsulates the crux of the issue; as attackers become more sophisticated, organizations must shift their focus from isolated defenses to securing the very foundations of trust within their networks.

The **High-Tech Crime Trends Report 2026** serves as a wake-up call for organizations across the globe. As cyber threats become increasingly interconnected and complex, the imperative to fortify cybersecurity measures at every level is more pressing than ever. By understanding these trends and adopting a holistic approach to security, businesses can better protect themselves from the evolving landscape of digital crime.

Building Tomorrow: Select Group's Sustainable Revolution in Dubai

In the heart of Dubai, UAE, a transformative movement is taking shape within the realm of real estate. Select Group, a leader in premium real estate development, is pioneering a sustainable approach that redefines urban living. With an unwavering commitment to innovation, the company is integrating low-impact materials into its residential developments. This groundbreaking initiative, executed in partnership with Engineering Contracting Company (ECC), underscores Select Group’s dedication to not only building luxurious homes but also cultivating healthier living environments for their residents.

A Green Future: The Role of Palm Strand Board

At the forefront of this sustainable transformation is the use of Palm Strand Board (PSB®), a revolutionary material supplied by DesertBoard. By incorporating approximately 3,000 cubic meters of PSB® into its projects, Select Group is making significant strides in reducing carbon emissions. This innovative board, crafted from upcycled agricultural palm waste, helps sequester an astounding 34 million kilograms of CO₂e. Transitioning to materials like PSB® not only diminishes the environmental footprint of construction but also enhances the overall quality of life for residents.

Moreover, PSB® is manufactured with a formaldehyde-free binding system, achieving a Super E0 rating that surpasses standard industry requirements. This commitment to low-emission building materials ensures healthier indoor air quality, promoting wellness and wellbeing among residents. As Israr Liaqat, Group CEO of Select Group, aptly states, “Sustainability has to show up in the decisions we make on site, not just in strategy documents.” This philosophy drives the company to prioritize material selection, directly impacting both environmental and human health.

Collaboration for Change: The Strength of Partnerships

The successful implementation of PSB® within projects like The Peninsula and The Edge showcases the effective partnership between Select Group and ECC. This collaboration reflects a shared vision of integrating innovative materials without compromising on build quality or efficiency. Mr. Hatem Farah, Chairman of ECC Group, emphasizes a significant shift in industry decision-making, where lifecycle impacts and indoor performance are now considered alongside traditional criteria. This progressive mindset marks a new era in construction, where sustainability is not just an add-on but a fundamental aspect of project execution.

DesertBoard’s involvement further highlights the potential of waste-to-resource innovation. Kamal Farah, Director of DesertBoard, points out that this collaboration exemplifies how alternative materials can yield verifiable environmental and human benefits when implemented at scale. By converting agricultural waste into durable construction materials, the project champions a data-driven approach to sustainable construction, reinforcing the notion that responsible practices can coexist with modern living.

Select Group's forward-thinking strategies are setting new benchmarks for sustainable living in Dubai. By integrating innovative materials like Palm Strand Board, they are not only constructing homes but are also fostering a healthier and more environmentally conscious community. This initiative serves as a beacon for the real estate industry, demonstrating that sustainability and luxury can indeed thrive together.

Transforming Healthcare Spaces: A New Era in Clinical Design

Redefining Patient-Centric Environments

DUBAI, UAE - This February, the vibrant city of Dubai emerged as a pivotal hub for the global healthcare community, hosting the illustrious World Health Expo. Amid the excitement of over 270,000 professionals and 4,800 exhibitors from more than 180 countries, MillerKnoll took center stage, igniting discussions on how clinical environments can be revolutionized to better support those who depend on them daily. This landmark event served as a catalyst for rich dialogue, innovative ideas, and bold thinking regarding the future of healthcare delivery.

At the MillerKnoll showroom, a dynamic conversation unfolded, led by Dr. Michelle Ossmann and Dr. Deborah Wingler. They addressed an often-overlooked principle: the design of healthcare environments must prioritize the lived experiences of patients, caregivers, and clinical staff. By focusing on these realities, healthcare organizations can create spaces that not only function efficiently but also actively enhance wellbeing, performance, and outcomes. Clearly, the shift towards patient-centric design is essential in fostering environments that nurture both patients and healthcare providers alike.

Addressing Urgent Challenges in Healthcare

As the expo continued, Dr. Ossmann and Dr. Wingler took to the Future X stage to unveil their groundbreaking research, "Blueprint for Nurse Burnout." This award-winning study confronts one of healthcare's most pressing challenges: the global nursing workforce crisis. Funded by CADRE, this research offers evidence-based insights on how thoughtful design can mitigate fatigue, reduce cognitive overload, and provide better support for frontline nurses.

By exploring the intricate relationship between space, workflow, and human performance, the study emphasizes that well-designed environments can bolster resilience within healthcare systems. Dr. Ossmann articulated the significance of this research: "This research addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing healthcare today; nursing fatigue. It demonstrates how the design community can play a meaningful role in mitigating burnout and improving outcomes across healthcare globally." 

The conversations sparked during World Health Expo reflect a transformative shift within the healthcare landscape—from reactive problem-solving to proactive, human-centered innovation. At MillerKnoll, the belief is unwavering: when research, design, and clinical insight converge, the outcome transcends mere aesthetics. It paves the way for a more sustainable, supportive future for healthcare professionals and the patients they serve. 

As we look towards the future, the emphasis on creating environments that prioritize the well-being of both patients and providers will undoubtedly redefine healthcare delivery, fostering a culture of care that resonates throughout the industry.