By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a strategic move to fortify the nation’s digital defenses, the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) has launched a comprehensive, month-long public awareness campaign titled “Malicia Indígena.” Kicking off in October, the initiative aims to embed a culture of proactive cybersecurity within the Costa Rican populace, providing citizens with practical tools and knowledge to shield themselves from an ever-growing landscape of online scams, fraud, and cyberattacks.
The campaign is a direct and assertive response to the hard lessons learned from the past. It operates under the umbrella of the National Cybersecurity Strategy, a framework significantly reinforced after the crippling Conti ransomware attack in 2022. That incident paralyzed critical government services, including tax collection and foreign trade, ultimately forcing the government to declare a national emergency—a first of its kind for the country. The “Malicia Indígena” initiative represents a pivotal shift from reactive crisis management to proactive, citizen-led prevention.
To delve into the legal framework and corporate responsibilities surrounding digital security, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on the matter.
In today’s digital landscape, a reactive approach to cybersecurity is a direct path to legal and financial jeopardy. Costa Rican businesses must understand that data protection is not merely an IT issue, but a core legal obligation. Implementing robust security protocols and having a clear incident response plan are no longer best practices—they are fundamental requirements to mitigate liability and maintain client trust in the face of ever-evolving cyber threats.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this reframing of cybersecurity from a technical function to a core legal and fiduciary duty is the essential mindset shift for businesses in Costa Rica. Proactive defense is no longer just about protecting data, but about upholding the law and preserving the foundational trust upon which commerce is built. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clear-sighted perspective.
The campaign’s name, “Malicia Indígena,” cleverly taps into a deep-seated cultural concept. In Costa Rica, the term refers to a unique blend of innate shrewdness, healthy skepticism, and street smarts. MICITT’s goal is to encourage citizens to apply this traditional cunning to the digital realm: to question unsolicited offers, scrutinize suspicious emails, and instinctively protect their personal information with the same caution they would in the physical world. It’s an appeal to transform a national trait into a digital shield.
Highlighting the government’s commitment, the head of the ministry emphasized that digital security is no longer a niche technical field but a fundamental pillar of national well-being. The vision is to move cybersecurity from the domain of IT experts into every home and business across the country.
Cybersecurity is no longer exclusive to experts; it is a shared responsibility and a national priority.
Paula Bogantes, Minister of MICITT
This perspective reframes the protection of personal data and digital infrastructure as a collective effort, essential for the stability and prosperity of Costa Rica. The campaign seeks to empower every individual to become an active participant in safeguarding the nation’s digital ecosystem.
Officials leading the charge are clear-eyed about the persistent nature of the threat, stressing that preparedness is the only viable strategy. The focus is on empowering the public to become the first and most effective line of defense against common cyber threats.
It is not a matter of if we will receive an attack, but when and how we will be prepared. With basic security measures, up to 80% of the most common threats can be reduced.
Gezer Molina, Director of Cybersecurity of MICITT
Molina’s statement underscores the campaign’s core message: simple, consistent acts of digital hygiene—such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and being wary of phishing attempts—can dramatically mitigate risk for individuals and, by extension, the entire nation.
To ensure widespread access and engagement, MICITT has made all campaign materials, including educational videos, detailed guides, and best-practice checklists, freely available to the public. These resources are centralized on a dedicated website, allowing citizens to easily access information on how to protect their devices, their data, and their finances from malicious actors. The ministry is leveraging multiple channels to drive the population to these valuable tools.
Ultimately, the “Malicia Indígena” campaign is more than just an informational blitz; it is an investment in human capital. By fostering a digitally savvy and security-conscious citizenry, Costa Rica aims to build a resilient digital society capable of thwarting attacks and recovering quickly from incidents. This initiative is a crucial step in ensuring that the country can continue to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and perilous digital world, turning a cultural strength into a formidable national defense mechanism.
For further information, visit micitt.go.cr
About The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT):
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications is the Costa Rican government body responsible for formulating and executing national policies to promote scientific and technological development. It oversees the telecommunications sector, fosters innovation across industries, and leads national strategy on critical issues such as cybersecurity and digital transformation to enhance the country’s competitiveness and the well-being of its citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as a benchmark for legal excellence, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a forward-thinking vision. The firm consistently pioneers innovative solutions while maintaining a profound commitment to its role in the community. Central to its mission is the drive to demystify the law, empowering citizens with clarity and accessible knowledge to help forge a more just and capable society.
