Surge in Cyberattacks Intensifies During Holiday Shopping Season

During the holiday season, the increase in online shopping and the exchange of sensitive information amplifies cybersecurity risks. While external threats are a primary concern, experts emphasize that internal vulnerabilities, such as human error and insufficient organizational preparedness, also contribute significantly. This period is especially critical, as a survey by SILIKN reveals that 80.1% of consumers would stop using a company’s products or services following a data breach.

SILIKN's research underscores that internal factors, including employee mistakes, insufficient cybersecurity training, and organizational negligence, are the main contributors to data breaches. However, the focus often remains predominantly on external threats, with internal weaknesses frequently overlooked.

According to recent data, 77.6% of Mexican consumers are reluctant to share personal information with companies that have suffered a data breach. Additionally, 55.8% of respondents attribute these breaches to inadequate security measures implemented by the companies themselves. While 32.2% express more understanding toward SMEs, larger corporations face heightened scrutiny. The study also reveals that 68.9% of Mexican consumers view companies that have experienced a data breach as unreliable, and 80.1% would cease utilizing their products or services as a result.

Kaspersky Reports 42.4 Million Cyberattacks Targeting Mexico

As of 3Q24, companies in Mexico experienced 42.4 million cyberattacks, reflecting a 30% increase compared to the previous period, according to Kaspersky. Sectors such as government, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and education were the most targeted due to their sensitive data, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. "Attackers aim to breach systems in order to steal valuable information or disrupt operations," explained Claudio Martinelli, General Director of the Americas, Kaspersky.