Case Study: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology strengthens research security and builds a human firewall with Proofpoint

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Advances Research With Protection From Proofpoint

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a research-focused university on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast that depends on open, international collaboration across more than 120 countries. That openness—coupled with a diverse mix of researchers, students, staff, contractors and family members—created a large, varied attack surface and made protecting valuable research data while educating users about phishing and email threats a complex challenge.

KAUST implemented Proofpoint Email Protection, Targeted Attack Protection and Security & Awareness Training to create a multilayered defense and a data-driven “human firewall” that scores user risk and delivers targeted training. The solution provides real-time threat detection, automated blocking/quarantine of malicious messages, improved security team efficiency and a stronger security posture—helping prevent targeted and zero‑day email attacks and enabling safer, more streamlined research.

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology

Ayad (Ed) Sleiman

Head of Information Security