Ahead of 2022 FIFA World Cup, cybersecurity experts gather in Qatar

Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy hosted global cybersecurity experts on March 25 to explore cyber threats posed to major sporting and public events as part of ongoing preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in Qatar.

The third Cyber Security Expert Group meeting held under Interpol’s Project Stadia, the meeting focused on the internet of things and industrial control systems, national cyber security capabilities, cyber security risk management, and cybersecurity operations for venues.

“Through Project Stadia, Interpol has created a ready network of specialists around the world to shape future efforts for securing major public events,” Falah Al Dosari, the senior project manager of Project Stadia, said. “Better understanding the global threat environment and its implications is vital for nations hosting future major events.”

Interpol established Project Stadia in 2012. The 10-year initiative aims to enhance policing and security for the 2022 FIFA World Cup by leveraging insights from experts from members countries that have hosted similar major sporting events. The project features a series of workshops and expert group meetings that focus on physical security, legislation and cybersecurity.

Knowledge, insights and best practices held during Project Stadia meetings are then consolidated and distributed among Interpol member countries through the Interpol web-based knowledge management system. The overall goal is to improve physical and cyber security of future major events held around the world.