Colombia Update: Cybersecurity education is a national imperative

A few years ago, it was admissible to say that in the near future, an interconnected world was envisioned, where technologies would be part of the daily life of human beings, and a large part of our daily tasks would involve the use of technology, data transfer, and interconnected systems accessible from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Today, we can no longer say that such a vision corresponds to a near future; it is the reality we live and perceive now. Whether we wanted it or not, we have been adapting, allowing ourselves to know and enjoy the benefits of technology, and adopting it as part of our lives. Often, when we do not have access to that technology, we miss it and long for it.

Within the framework of this interconnected world, it is increasingly common in specialized environments to talk about cybersecurity. Governments and companies have become interested in the subject and have begun to understand the need for cybersecurity. However, this is still a term with an unknown meaning and almost no application by the majority of the population. This situation makes us easy targets for cyberattacks, as the initial task of a cyberattack is to find vulnerabilities that allow unauthorized access to systems through which companies, governments, and everyone in this interconnected world store and exchange information that should not be public. The disclosure of such information can result in serious violations of rights, substantial economic losses, and even risks to national security. Cybersecurity seeks to prevent these vulnerabilities from occurring, and if they do occur, it provides immediate reaction tools to ensure the damage does not persist and worsen.

Raising such a situation should not be a reason to move away from the use of technology, as its benefits and even its necessity are undeniable in the present and future. Technology is undoubtedly a fundamental engine for global evolution and development in many aspects of daily life for people, companies, and public entities. However, it is essential that discussions and knowledge about cybersecurity go beyond the specialized environments where it is currently addressed and become widespread knowledge. Its importance should be recognized broadly, from children to adults, large and small companies, and without a doubt, governments and international organizations. We must all have basic tools, according to the level of risk each person faces, to at least detect the possibility of unauthorized access attempts on our computers, cell phones, etc., and know how to avoid it or react when it has already materialized. Of course, a greater degree of specialization is required for companies and governments that manage databases and essential systems containing highly valuable and confidential information or through which critical tasks are carried out.

Given this context, it is a national imperative to join efforts to educate the population on cybersecurity. Governments have the responsibility to lead this effort, and the same must be done by schools, universities, and companies, training their students and staff as appropriate. Each cyber incident avoided thanks to a more educated and aware population represents significant savings in recovery costs and damage mitigation. Additionally, it maintains the trust of citizens in the digital ecosystem, which is essential in present times.

By LLOREDA CAMACHO & CO, Colombia, a Transatlantic Law International Affiliated Firm.  

For further information or for any assistance please contact colombia@transatlanticlaw.com 

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