Workshop Presenter

Eng. Mohammed Shalabi

The workshop titled “NISSA Inquiry Platform” was held on Saturday, August 2, 2025. It brought together an elite group of experts and specialists in cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The meeting aimed to review the pivotal role of AI in developing cyber defense strategies, using the NISSA Platform as a practical model.

The session, led by Mr. Mohammed Shalabi, focused on the transition from traditional Reactive Security to AI-powered Proactive Security. Key highlights included AI’s ability to analyze massive datasets at high speeds, advanced detection of “zero-day” (unknown) threats, and automated incident response to minimize potential damage.

The workshop also addressed associated challenges, such as privacy concerns and the necessity of human oversight. It concluded with a demonstration of innovative tools and strategic recommendations for institutions looking to adopt these technologies effectively.

Introduction

In an era where our lives are digitally intertwined, cybersecurity is no longer just a technical niche—it is a daily necessity to protect our data, privacy, and institutions. As electronic threats evolve, traditional methods are no longer sufficient. AI serves as the intelligent tool that grants us a proactive edge in this race.

The “NISSA Inquiry Platform” workshop provided a space to exchange knowledge and explore how emerging technologies shape the cybersecurity landscape, moving beyond theory into practical tools and real-world case studies.

About the Organizing Body and Presenter

Mr. Mohammed Shalabi is a specialist with deep expertise in cybersecurity and AI. He is a member of the National Computer Emergency Response Team (LibyaCERT) and serves as the lead for the “Smart Assistant” at the National Authority for Information Security and Safety.

The workshop was organized in cooperation with the National Authority for Information Security and Safety, the body responsible for protecting Libya’s ICT infrastructure since its establishment in 2013. The Authority recently launched the “Smart Assistant,” an advanced tool designed to support professionals in the sector.

The event was attended by 11 representatives from vital government agencies, private sector companies, and university students, reflecting a growing national interest in AI applications.

Workshop Pillars

1. Transforming the Cyber Landscape: From reactive to proactive.
2. AI Mechanisms in the Cyber Battlefield: How it works.
3. Pros and Challenges: A balanced view.
4. Emerging Technologies and Innovative Tools.
5. Case Studies and Practical Applications.
6. Demonstration of the NISSA Platform.
7. Overview of the NISSA Inquiry Platform.

Pillar Details

Pillar I: From Reactive to Proactive

The presenter noted a 38% increase in cyberattacks globally over the past year. AI changes the game by detecting threats up to 60 times faster than traditional methods, allowing institutions to learn from past attacks and predict future ones.

Pillar II: Mechanisms of AI in Defense

• Reducing False Positives: Precisely identifying actual risks instead of overwhelming analysts with false alarms.
• Advanced Threat Detection: Monitoring malicious patterns and unknown threats in real-time.
• Data-Driven Analytics: Analyzing vast security logs to find hidden threats the human eye might miss.
• Automated Incident Response: Immediately containing threats to reduce the “attack window.”

Pillar III: Advantages vs. Challenges

Advantages:

• Higher Efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks allows specialists to focus on complex threats.
• Greater Accuracy: Improving detection rates of real threats by up to 95%.
• Faster Response: Containing threats in seconds.

Challenges:

• Adversarial AI: Attackers can use the same technology to develop more sophisticated malware.
• Privacy Concerns: Requires the collection and analysis of massive amounts of sensitive data.
• Human Oversight: Critical decisions still require human judgment and experience.

Pillar VII: Overview of the NISSA Platform

Primary Goal:

NISSA AI provides interactive cognitive support regarding all aspects of information security in Libya. It aims to spread awareness and provide reliable information about the policies, procedures, services, and initiatives of the National Authority for Information Security and Safety.

Technical Characteristics:

• Natural Language Processing (NLP): Ability to understand and analyze queries in both Arabic and English.
• Information Retrieval: Access to stored data from official NAISS sources.
• Continuous Learning: The knowledge base is updated constantly with new information issued by the Authority.

Target Groups:

• Citizens: For digital self-protection tips.
• Government Institutions: For support in implementing national security standards.
• Private Sector: For guidance on securing systems.
• Researchers/Students: As a reliable source for national security information.

Recommendations

1. Boost R&D Investment: Support research in AI and cybersecurity to develop local solutions tailored to the Libyan context.
2. Capacity Building: Invest in training for professionals, students, and government employees to bridge the knowledge gap.
3. Policy Development: Establish clear regulatory frameworks for AI use that balance national security with digital rights and privacy.
4. Strengthen Cooperation: Encourage partnerships between national institutions and international research centers.
5. Proactive Shift: Prioritize technologies that detect threats early rather than just responding to incidents after they occur.