Order Safely campaign to enhance e-commerce security in Saudi Arabia
A national initiative to enhance cybersecurity in e-commerce
In a strategic move aimed at building a safe and reliable digital environment, 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.” This comprehensive initiative aims to cultivate a strong cybersecurity culture among consumers and e-commerce service providers in Saudi Arabia, encouraging them to adopt best practices for security when conducting online transactions.
General context: Rapid growth and renewed risks
The launch of this campaign comes at a time when the Kingdom is witnessing tremendous growth in the e-commerce sector, driven by digital transformation, a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend, making online shopping an integral part of millions' lives. With this significant expansion, however, cybersecurity challenges and risks have emerged, as attackers seek to exploit this surge through phishing attacks, fake online stores, and the theft of consumers' personal and financial data. Therefore, raising awareness and equipping users with the knowledge to protect themselves has become crucial.
The importance of the campaign and its expected impact
The importance of the “Order Safely” campaign lies in its pivotal role in fostering trust in the digital economy. Locally, the campaign will contribute to reducing financial fraud incidents and protecting the data of citizens and residents, encouraging more individuals to engage in e-commerce with confidence and security. This, in turn, supports the growth of local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and enhances market competitiveness. Regionally and internationally, these efforts reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a leading digital hub in the region, underscoring its commitment to providing a safe and attractive investment environment for global companies, and aligning with international standards for information security and consumer protection.
Campaign themes and main activities
The National Cybersecurity Authority explained that the campaign will include diverse awareness initiatives and activities to ensure accessibility for all segments of society. These activities include holding specialized sessions to raise awareness among 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 for the “Amn” program under the hashtag “#OrderSafely,” in cooperation with relevant national entities. The educational materials will focus on vital topics such as how to identify phishing attacks, the importance of enabling two-factor authentication, securing applications, the necessity of performing regular security updates, and safe internet browsing practices to protect consumers from evolving cyber threats.
