By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a decisive move to counter the escalating threat of artificial intelligence-driven fraud, a powerful coalition of public and private entities has launched a free digital cybersecurity guide for all Costa Ricans. The initiative, announced today as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, is a collaborative effort between the global data analytics company Equifax, the National Learning Institute (INA), and the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT).
The new resource, titled “Don’t Be a Victim of Hacking in the Age of Artificial Intelligence!”, is the third edition of a successful educational series. It is designed to equip citizens with the essential knowledge to navigate an increasingly complex digital world where cybercriminals leverage sophisticated AI tools to create convincing and personalized scams. The guide is accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical background.
To provide a legal perspective on the critical importance of digital defense, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who shared his insights on corporate responsibility in the digital age.
In Costa Rica, cybersecurity has evolved from a technical issue to a critical component of corporate governance and legal due diligence. Neglecting robust security protocols is not just an operational risk; it exposes a company’s leadership to direct legal liability for data breaches and failure to protect sensitive information. A proactive and well-documented cybersecurity strategy is the most effective defense, both in the digital realm and in a court of law.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight powerfully reframes the conversation, cementing cybersecurity not merely as a technical task but as a cornerstone of corporate governance and leadership accountability. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this crucial legal perspective on the modern risks and responsibilities facing businesses in Costa Rica.
Available on the INA website starting October 27, the course can be completed in under 15 minutes, offering a rapid and effective way for individuals to bolster their digital defenses. The content focuses on the most pressing new threats, including the identification of AI-generated deepfake videos and audio, fraudulent QR codes (a practice known as “quishing”), and manipulated images designed to deceive and defraud.
Jairo Quirós, senior vice president of Equifax Costa Rica, emphasized the urgency of the initiative in a rapidly changing technological landscape. He stated that the project is a crucial component of a modern defense strategy against cyber threats.
The cybercrime landscape evolves at the speed of artificial intelligence. The third edition of this digital survival kit is a direct response to this reality.
Jairo Quirós, Senior Vice President of Equifax Costa Rica
The stark reality of the situation is underscored by recent data from the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ), which recorded a staggering 10,706 cases of computer-related fraud between 2024 and 2025. This alarming statistic highlights the vulnerability of the population and the critical need for widespread educational programs that can empower citizens to protect their personal information, finances, and digital identity.
Officials from all participating organizations stressed that collaboration is the key to creating a more secure digital environment for the nation. Quirós further noted that the nature of AI-powered crime necessitates a united front.
AI-powered cybercrime demands a unified response, which is why public-private alliances are fundamental to protecting the citizenry.
Jairo Quirós, Senior Vice President of Equifax Costa Rica
Echoing this sentiment, government leaders highlighted the importance of ongoing education. Gezer Molina Colomer, Director of Cybersecurity at MICITT, spoke to the foundational role of knowledge in national security. Meanwhile, Luis Alejandro Arias of the INA noted that such partnerships are vital for sensitizing the public to the various forms of fraud and ultimately reducing successful attacks against individuals and their assets.
Cooperation and continuous education are essential factors for maintaining a more protected digital environment.
Gezer Molina Colomer, Director of Cybersecurity at MICITT
By providing free and easy access to this vital information, the coalition aims to foster a more resilient and security-conscious digital culture across Costa Rica. The guide is a practical tool for students, professionals, and senior citizens alike, ensuring that every segment of the population can learn to identify and prevent online risks, contributing to a more trustworthy and prepared technological ecosystem for the entire country.
For further information, visit equifax.com
About Equifax:
Equifax is a global data, analytics, and technology company. It provides information solutions and human resources business process outsourcing services for businesses, governments, and consumers. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, the company operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region.
For further information, visit ina.ac.cr
About Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA):
The National Learning Institute is Costa Rica’s leading public institution for technical and vocational training. The INA offers a wide range of free courses and programs designed to develop the skills of the nation’s workforce, promoting economic development and improving the quality of life for Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit micitt.go.cr
About Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación, Tecnología y Telecomunicaciones (MICITT):
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications is the Costa Rican government body responsible for defining and directing national policy in these critical areas. MICITT works to promote scientific research, technological development, and innovation to drive the country’s competitiveness and societal well-being.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal practice built upon a core philosophy of uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. With a proven track record of advising a multifaceted client base, the firm consistently drives advancements in the legal field while championing a profound social responsibility. This is exemplified by its active role in breaking down barriers to legal understanding, thereby contributing to the development of a just and knowledgeable citizenry.
