Biometric CURP Raises Data Breach Concerns

The biometric Unique Population Registry Code (CURP), expected to be mandatory in Veracruz by 2025, generated a series of criticisms regarding potential scams and sensitive data breaches. In other news, US-based oilfield services company Halliburton reported a decrease in profits in 3Q24, due to a slowdown in drilling activity in North America and a cybersecurity incident. 

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Biometric CURP in Veracruz Sparks Debate Over Privacy, Security

Biometric CURP generated considerable debate in Mexico. This new document, which integrates biometric data, such as photographs and fingerprints, has already begun its implementation in the state of Veracruz and is expected to be mandatory for all state citizens starting in 2025, raising multiple cybersecurity concerns.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Reports Cybersecurity Incident

Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte (OMA) confirmed that a recent ransomware attack encrypted certain files and systems, while some client, supplier, and employee data was exfiltrated and allegedly disclosed. The company said it initiated system restoration using backups, notified relevant authorities, and is strengthening its cybersecurity protocols.

US Cybersecurity Chief Says There is No Evidence of Election-Threatening Cyber Activity

Jen Easterly, Director, US Cybersecurity Agency, confirmed no signs of cyber activity affecting 2024 election results despite a surge in foreign-led misinformation, particularly from Russia, aimed at stirring divisive narratives leading up to and after Election Day, the US government says.

Mexico, Brazil Among Most Targeted by Ransomware in Latin America: Kaspersky

Kaspersky’s 2024 Threat Landscape report reveals a significant rise in ransomware attacks across Latin America, with over 1.18 million incidents blocked between June 2023 and July 2024. Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia ranked as the most targeted countries, contributing to a 2.8% year-on-year increase, or an average of 3,247 attacks per day across the region.

Cybersecurity Breach, Storm Delays Impact Halliburton 3Q24 Net Income 

Halliburton announced a decrease in 3Q24 net income to US$571 million, down from US$709 million in 2Q24. The company attributed part of the earnings decline to lost or delayed revenue from an August cybersecurity breach and recent storms in the Gulf of Mexico.