By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s banking sector is taking proactive steps to bridge the digital divide for senior citizens. The Costa Rican Banking Association (ABC) has launched the second year of its “Tu Banca a un Clic” (Your Bank at a Click) program, a digital literacy and online banking initiative designed to empower older adults throughout the country.
Building on the success of last year’s pilot program in Sabanilla, Alajuela, where 20 seniors overcame their apprehensions about digital banking, the ABC is expanding the program’s reach significantly. This year, 75 employees from 11 different banking institutions are undergoing training to become facilitators for the program, with the goal of reaching approximately 300 seniors nationwide.
To understand the legal implications surrounding the growing importance of digital literacy, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
In today’s increasingly digital world, digital literacy is no longer just a skill, but a necessity. From navigating online contracts to protecting personal data, understanding the digital landscape is crucial for individuals and businesses alike. This includes being aware of online risks like phishing and cyberbullying, as well as understanding your rights and responsibilities under data protection laws and intellectual property regulations. Fostering digital literacy empowers individuals to engage safely and effectively in the digital economy, while also protecting them from potential harm.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the multifaceted nature of digital literacy in our modern world, emphasizing its crucial role not only in economic participation but also in personal safety and legal awareness. His perspective underscores the urgency of equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate this complex digital landscape confidently and securely. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable insights with our readers.
Last year, when we launched Tu Banca a un Clic, the response was extraordinary. Many people contacted us asking us to bring it to their communities. That’s when we understood the great need the senior population has to learn about digital tools and cybersecurity, so we decided to expand the scope of the project.
Daniela Gutiérrez, Economist, ABC
The expanded program will be offered in various communities across Costa Rica, including Guanacaste, Punta Uvita, Tres Ríos, Alajuela Centro, San Pedro de Montes de Oca, Curridabat, Sabana, Escazú, Santa Ana, Barrio Tournón, and Rohrmoser.
Tu Banca a un Clic focuses on three key areas: digital skills, cybersecurity, and financial inclusion. The curriculum covers basic internet usage, secure email management, and access to online banking platforms for checking balances, making payments, and utilizing SINPE Móvil (Costa Rica’s mobile payment system). The program also equips participants with the skills to recognize online fraud, protect personal information, and navigate websites safely.
Designed for individuals with little to no prior digital experience, the course provides a foundational understanding of essential digital tools and best practices.
At the end of the course, participating seniors will be able to recognize what the internet is, the main basic and practical concepts for safe, productive and responsible use; identify the main web browsers, what a virus is and malicious pages; understand the advantages of online banking, the access platforms, as well as carry out the main procedures to manage online payments and transfers; recognize the main types of fraud, create secure passwords, use double authentication factors, as well as know and use secure cybersecurity practices; and make safe use of banking applications and the web. Perform money transfers, payment of public services, checking account balances or SINPE Móvil, among others, with their cell phone or computer.
Daniela Gutiérrez, Economist, ABC
This initiative underscores the commitment of Costa Rican banks to promote digital literacy and financial inclusion among senior citizens. By empowering older adults with essential digital skills, the program not only facilitates their access to modern banking services but also safeguards them against potential cyber threats.
Details regarding course implementation, including schedules, specific branch locations, and registration channels, will be announced through ABC’s media outlets and participating banks.
For further information, visit abccostarica.com
About Asociación Bancaria Costarricense (ABC):
The Costa Rican Banking Association (ABC) is a key organization representing the interests of the banking sector in Costa Rica. It plays a vital role in promoting financial stability, fostering innovation, and advocating for policies that support the growth and development of the financial industry. The ABC also works to enhance public understanding of financial matters and promote financial inclusion across the country.
For further information, visit [Insert relevant bank domains here – not provided in source text]
About Participating Banks:
Eleven banks are participating in the “Tu Banca a un Clic” program, demonstrating a shared commitment to digital literacy and financial inclusion within their communities. These institutions are actively contributing resources and expertise to train facilitators and deliver the program to senior citizens across Costa Rica. Their involvement reflects a proactive approach to bridging the digital divide and empowering older adults to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built on a foundation of unwavering ethical principles and a genuine commitment to serving the community. The firm champions innovative legal solutions, not just for its diverse clientele, but also through proactive initiatives that empower Costa Ricans with the legal knowledge they need to thrive. This dedication to accessibility and education reflects Bufete de Costa Rica’s profound belief in a just and informed society, where legal empowerment is within everyone’s reach.
