Cybercrime Surges as AI-Driven Threats Escalate

Global cybercrime costs are projected to reach up to US$15 billion by year-end, fueled by offensive AI and increasingly professionalized criminal networks. In Mexico, government-led digital transformation efforts face structural vulnerabilities that require embedding cybersecurity as a foundational element, not an afterthought. Private-sector readiness is also strained, as most companies lack the standardized processes and data governance needed for AI security. Looking ahead to 2026, the rise of autonomous AI-powered attacks will force organizations to adopt intelligence-driven, proactive defense models that go beyond traditional perimeter security.

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Cybercrime Projected to Cost US$15 Billion by the end of 2025

The global cost of cybercrime is set to reach between US$12 billion and US$15 billion by the end of 2025 if malicious activity continues at the current rate, reports NNT Data. This increase is attributed to a highly interconnected risk environment, driven by the operational maturity of ransomware groups, the adoption of offensive AI, and the systematic exploitation of vulnerabilities. 

Mexico 2026: Cybersecurity Key to Digital Transformation

Mexico's push for public sector digital transformation, led by the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency (ATDT), faces critical cybersecurity challenges. Despite the success of the Llave MX digital identity platform, Israel Quiroz, President and Founder, IQSEC, says that progress requires making cybersecurity a foundational pillar — not an add-on — by addressing operational deficits, completing crucial biometric registration, developing a robust legal framework to protect critical infrastructure, and fostering a nationwide culture of security to ensure sustainable digital governance.

Mexico’s AI Readiness Test: What Companies Must Fix First

Most Mexican businesses, particularly SMEs, are ill-prepared for AI, not due to lack of tools, but because AI is a General-Purpose Technology (GPT) that amplifies existing structures, says Carolina Ruiz, CEO, Brier & Thorn. A persistent digital maturity gap, where 67% of firms rely on manual processes, means companies lack the necessary prerequisites (standardized processes, clean data, and strong cybersecurity) for AI success. Firms must prioritize deep data governance and process standardization over simple tech upgrades to truly leverage AI, she adds.

Cybersecurity: A Strategic Key for Mexican–Israeli Partnership

Recognizing Mexico’s high exposure to cyberattacks, Mexican companies are encouraged to join an official delegation to CyberTech Global Tel Aviv 2026 for strategic partnerships. The event offers direct access to cutting-edge Israeli innovation in AI, quantum computing, and supply-chain security, providing a crucial opportunity for Mexican firms in Fintech, Manufacturing, and Critical Infrastructure to enhance their cyber resilience and align with global security standards.

2026: The Rise of AI-Powered Cybercrime

The 2026 cyber threat landscape will be defined by autonomous AI agents capable of executing the full attack life cycle, compressing timelines from weeks to minutes, as seen in recent espionage campaigns. Oscar Montes, Country Manager, Radware, emphasizes that companies must prepare for AI-powered ransomware and Machine Deception targeting automated systems. Modern defense requires auditing AI models, enhancing API security, and adopting a strategic, intelligence-driven resilience over reactive measures.