DIFC And Mastercard Partner To Enhance Cybersecurity Efforts Globally Date Reinforces DIFC’s leading reputation in MEASA for cyber security, data protection and world-class regulations Mastercard today launched its Global Cyber Forward programme in partnership with Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre and largest FinTech hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region. Governments, financial institutions and businesses around the world have been facing an increase in cyber threats as people and businesses become more digitally connected. According to an industry study, the threat of direct and indirect cyberattacks on global businesses is significant, with up to $5.2 trillion in economic impact being at risk over the next 5 years. Another study reported that 50 percent of global businesses are not prepared to deal with cyberattacks.