Cybercrime in Mexico: A threat that is growing unchecked

Over the last decade, cybercrime in Mexico and much of Latin America has seen an alarming increase of 25% per year, exceeding the global average of 21%.

This rapid growth reflects a structural problem: low investment in cybersecurity and a lack of robust policies regulating digital protection.

Weak investment in cybersecurity: the Achilles heel

The study Cybersecurity Economics for Emerging Markets (2024) points out that developing countries, such as Mexico, allocate up to 30% fewer resources to cyber protection compared to advanced economies. This investment gap leaves organizations (both public and private) more exposed to digital incidents that can compromise their information and affect their operations.

In Mexico, this situation is exacerbated by rapid digitization and the widespread use of connected devices (IoT), without a comprehensive strategy to ensure their security.

Each new device or digital service represents a potential gateway for attackers.

Governments and healthcare: the most vulnerable sectors

Among the sectors hardest hit by cybercrime in Mexico are government entities, which account for more than a third of reported attacks. The healthcare sector has also been one of the most affected, especially by the increase in ransomware attacks, in which criminals hijack critical information in exchange for financial ransoms.

The expansion of e-commerce, the rise of digital platforms, and the growing use of technology in government management have created an ideal ecosystem for cybercriminals.

In the last decade alone, the use of IoT devices has grown by more than 140%, while digital commerce platforms have increased by almost 300%, exposing even more sensitive data.

Economic impact and challenges for Mexico

The impact of cybercrime is not only measured in data loss, but also in economic consequences. It is estimated that a serious attack that disrupts government systems can represent a loss of up to 2.4% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, the outlook is not entirely negative: reducing cyberattack incidents by up to 75% could boost Mexico's GDP by approximately 1.5%, demonstrating that investing in cybersecurity not only protects but also strengthens the national economy.

Towards a culture of digital protection

To tackle the rise in cybercrime in Mexico, it is essential that the government and businesses adopt more robust digital security policies, accompanied by a civic culture that prioritizes data protection. Initiatives such as Cyberpeace seek to raise awareness and preparedness in the face of emerging threats, promoting a more secure and reliable digital environment.

Cybercrime in Mexico continues to rise, but being prepared makes all the difference. At Cyberpeace, we promote digital education and prevention.

Learn with us how to detect risks and strengthen your online security. Follow us and stay protected!

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