Weak regulation leaves Mexico vulnerable to cybercrime

Significance

The apparent ransomware attack followed a high-profile attack by ‘hacktivist’ group Guacamaya, on the Ministry of Defence (SEDENA) on September 19. Leaked information included details about security operations and President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO)’s health.

Impacts

• Unless regulation makes firms report hacks and data breaches, cybercriminals will continue operating with impunity.
• SEDENA’s failure to provide details of the attack it suffered highlights the opacity of the government.
• The training of cybersecurity specialists needed to mitigate cybercrime impacts effectively will be a protracted process.