Cyberattacks increase 16%: Business Alert

Cyberpeace Tech
Jun 16
3 min read

During 2024 there was a worrying increase in cybersecurity incidents, exceeding the 97,000 cases officially reported in Spain. This 16.6% increase over the previous year is not only a warning for Europe, but also a wake-up call for Mexico, where the use of the Internet and the digitization of services is constantly growing, but often without adequate protection measures.

16% of the attacks affected individual users, while the rest targeted companies, including small businesses, freelancers and microenterprises, sectors very similar to the Mexican business fabric.

Malware and digital fraud, the most frequent threats

The most frequent type of attack was malware, with more than 42 thousand cases, with ransomware standing out as one of the most dangerous threats due to its ability to hijack files and demand payment to release them.

This was followed by online fraud, with more than 38 thousand incidents, especially phishing, a technique that seeks to deceive people to obtain their personal or banking data.

Attempted system intrusions, fake online stores and other digital deception tactics affecting both consumers and businesses were also detected.

SMEs, the most affected by cyberattacks

32% of cyberattacks targeted businesses, mainly SMEs and freelancers. These organizations tend to have fewer technological and human resources to deal with sophisticated threats such as corporate phishing, email fraud or malware infiltrating internal networks.

In Mexico, where SMEs account for more than 95% of companies, this situation is particularly worrying. The lack of cybersecurity culture, combined with limited infrastructure, makes them highly vulnerable to losing information, money or even shutting down after an attack.

Prevention is key: more queries for help

There was also an increase in the number of people seeking advice for cybersecurity problems or doubts, with the most common issues being identity theft, cyberbullying of minors, phishing and fraudulent purchases.

More than 50% of these consultations were preventive, which shows that there is greater awareness, but digital education still needs to be strengthened from an early age and within the work environment.

What can Mexico learn from this scenario?

Although the data comes from Europe, the scenario is very similar to that experienced by Mexican companies and citizens. Digitalization is advancing faster than protection strategies, leaving gaps that attackers know how to exploit.

It is crucial to invest in basic security tools, such as antivirus, two-factor authentication and backups. In addition, awareness campaigns should be promoted both at home and in offices, to prevent ignorance from being the gateway to cybercrime.

Conclusion

The increase in cyberattacks is a reality that affects individuals and businesses alike. The information revealed this 2024 confirms that digital crime is evolving and demands an immediate response based on prevention, training and technology.

For Mexico, this international report is an opportunity to strengthen its cybersecurity culture and protect both its population and its digital economy.

At Cyberpeace, we invite you to stay up to date on cybersecurity and the digital threats we face every day. Information and prevention are key tools to protect your company, your data and your digital identity. Do you want to learn more about how to defend yourself in the digital environment? Follow us on social networks and always stay one step ahead.