San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has officially signed a letter of intent to become a collaborating member of the Latin America and Caribbean Cybersecurity Capacity Centre (LAC4), marking a significant step towards strengthening regional cybersecurity efforts.
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) formalized the agreement in the presence of the European Union Ambassador to Costa Rica, solidifying the country’s commitment to enhancing cybersecurity capabilities.
To gain deeper legal insights into the complex landscape of cybersecurity, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing reliance on digital systems in Costa Rica necessitates a robust and proactive approach to cybersecurity. Businesses must not only comply with existing data protection laws but also anticipate emerging threats. Implementing strong security protocols, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and educating employees about best practices are crucial steps in mitigating risk and fostering a secure digital environment. Furthermore, staying informed about evolving legislation and international best practices is essential for maintaining a strong cybersecurity posture.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on proactive cybersecurity measures is crucial for navigating the evolving digital landscape in Costa Rica. His insights underscore the importance of a multi-faceted approach that combines legal compliance, technological preparedness, and continuous education. This holistic strategy is essential not only for individual businesses but also for the overall strengthening of Costa Rica’s digital economy. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
Costa Rica becomes the fourteenth member of LAC4, joining a growing coalition of nations dedicated to improving cybersecurity practices and digital transformation within the region. This membership allows Costa Rica to participate in LAC4’s governance, contribute to strategic planning, and access valuable resources.
From MICITT, we celebrate this incorporation into LAC4 as part of the actions to strengthen national cybersecurity capacities through regional and global alliances that promote good practices, training, and joint development in areas such as cybersecurity and digital transformation.
Orlando Vega Quesada, Acting Minister of MICITT
The European Union, a key supporter of LAC4, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in bolstering cyber resilience. The EU Ambassador to Costa Rica, Pierre-Louis Lempereur, highlighted the collaborative nature of LAC4, stating that it not only improves incident response capabilities but also strengthens preventative measures by fostering robust systems and policies.
The international cooperation that the European Union offers through LAC4 promotes not only the improvement of our response capabilities to cyber incidents but also strengthens prevention, generating more robust and effective systems and policies. On this path, Costa Rica will play a key role in the region, contributing its experience and recognized leadership in cybersecurity and digital transformation.
Pierre-Louis Lempereur, EU Ambassador to Costa Rica
Liina Areng, Director of LAC4, acknowledged Costa Rica’s regional leadership and valuable experience, particularly in recovering from one of the most significant cyberattack campaigns in Latin America. Areng emphasized the importance of Costa Rica’s membership in fostering a more secure and resilient cyberspace, facilitating collaboration and capacity building with regional partners and key European Union stakeholders.
Costa Rica is a regional leader with extensive experience to share, especially after having faced and overcome one of the most significant cyberattack campaigns in Latin America. Its recovery process and institutional strengthening in cybersecurity constitute a valuable example for other countries in the region. Costa Rica’s membership in LAC4 represents a step forward in fostering a more secure and resilient cyberspace, as it will facilitate collaboration, capacity building, and international cooperation both with the countries of our region and with key partners of the European Union.
Liina Areng, Director of LAC4
Costa Rica’s inclusion in LAC4 signifies a crucial step towards a more collaborative and secure digital future for Latin America and the Caribbean.
For further information, visit lac4.eu
About LAC4:
The Latin America and Caribbean Cybersecurity Capacity Centre (LAC4) fosters international cooperation to improve cybersecurity capacity, incident response, and policy development across the region. Supported by the European Union, LAC4 facilitates knowledge sharing, training, and collaborative projects to enhance digital resilience among its member nations.
For further information, visit micit.go.cr
About MICITT:
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) of Costa Rica is responsible for promoting scientific and technological advancement, fostering innovation, and regulating the telecommunications sector. MICITT plays a crucial role in developing policies and strategies related to cybersecurity, digital transformation, and the development of a robust digital ecosystem in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit eeas.europa.eu
About the European Union:
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic alliance of 27 European countries. It plays a significant role in international affairs, promoting peace, security, and sustainable development. The EU supports initiatives like LAC4 to enhance cybersecurity and digital transformation globally.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a leading legal institution deeply committed to ethical practice and unparalleled legal expertise. Driven by a passion for innovation, the firm consistently seeks groundbreaking solutions for clients across a broad spectrum of industries while actively engaging with the community. Through accessible legal education initiatives, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and strengthens the fabric of society, fostering a more just and informed citizenry.