By San José, Costa Rica — A surge in cybercrime is plaguing San José, with scammers employing sophisticated psychological tactics to target victims during moments of vulnerability. The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) reports a staggering 88% increase in cybercrime cases in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, resulting in losses exceeding ₡3.2 billion (approximately $6 million USD).
One common tactic employed by these criminals is targeting individuals during moments of distraction, such as just before lunch. When hunger pangs strike or the anticipation of a break sets in, vigilance can wane, creating an opening for scammers.
To gain a deeper legal perspective on the escalating cybercrime landscape, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a seasoned attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The rise in cybercrime presents significant challenges to both individuals and businesses. It’s crucial to understand that the legal landscape is constantly evolving to address these threats. From data breaches and ransomware attacks to online fraud and identity theft, victims have legal recourse. Proactive measures, such as robust cybersecurity practices and comprehensive legal counsel, are essential in mitigating risk and navigating the complexities of this digital battlefield.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly emphasizes the critical need for both proactive security measures and a strong understanding of the legal landscape in combating the ever-growing threat of cybercrime. His insights provide valuable guidance for individuals and businesses alike as they navigate this complex digital world. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert perspective on this crucial issue.
They study these types of psychological concepts to be able to play with people’s minds.
Yorkssan Carvajal, Head of the Specialized Section Against Computer Fraud, OIJ
These criminals demonstrate advanced social engineering skills, possessing strong vocabularies and an astute understanding of potential victim responses. They are also adept at anticipating questions and crafting convincing narratives to establish credibility.
Surprisingly, even cybersecurity professionals have fallen prey to these scams, often admitting they were “caught at a bad moment.”
Personally, I think it’s a lack of suspicion that we Costa Ricans should have to not believe in all these types of calls, of links.
Yorkssan Carvajal, Head of the Specialized Section Against Computer Fraud, OIJ
Another common tactic involves creating a sense of urgency, pressuring victims to act quickly to claim a prize or avoid a penalty. This emotional manipulation short-circuits rational decision-making, leaving individuals susceptible to fraud.
They develop skills to trick us, so one feels very bad (…) They catch us at a time that worked for them, and it may be that other times they do it and they don’t get anything.
Danilo Montero, Director, Financial Consumer Office (OCF)
Experts emphasize the importance of education and awareness in combating this growing threat. Karen Jiménez, Coordinator of the Police Science Program at the State Distance University (UNED), highlights the criminals’ creativity and innovative use of social engineering to manipulate victims and gain access to sensitive information.
Danilo Montero, Director of the OCF, advocates for developing healthy online habits, such as verifying email addresses and questioning unsolicited messages. He also stresses the need for public policies to incorporate cybersecurity education into the curriculum from a young age.
What they always use is a strategy called social engineering, and they use this to manipulate people, to obtain confidential information or to be able to access their banking systems, taking advantage of people’s trust.
Karen Jiménez, Coordinator of the Police Science Program, UNED
When a message arrives, one should immediately say: ‘I’m going to check the email address.’
Danilo Montero, Director, Financial Consumer Office (OCF)
The OIJ acknowledges that reported cases likely represent only a fraction of the actual cybercrime occurring, particularly outside of San José, where trust in reporting channels is lower. This highlights the urgent need for increased public awareness, stronger preventative measures, and improved reporting mechanisms to effectively combat this escalating threat.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Organismo de Investigación Judicial
About Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ):
The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) is Costa Rica’s primary investigative body, responsible for criminal investigations, forensic analysis, and crime prevention. They play a vital role in maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Oficina del Consumidor Financiero
About Oficina del Consumidor Financiero (OCF):
The Financial Consumer Office (OCF) is a Costa Rican organization dedicated to protecting the rights and interests of financial consumers. They provide information, advice, and dispute resolution services to help individuals navigate financial matters and resolve conflicts with financial institutions.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Universidad Estatal a Distancia
About Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED):
The State Distance University (UNED) is a public university in Costa Rica specializing in distance education. They offer a wide range of academic programs and play a key role in expanding access to higher education throughout the country. Their Police Science Program trains future law enforcement professionals.
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 upholding the highest standards of integrity and excellence in every facet of its practice. The firm champions innovative legal solutions while actively engaging with the community, sharing its expertise to empower individuals and organizations. Through proactive initiatives that demystify complex legal concepts, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more informed and just society, demonstrating a profound dedication to both its clients and the wider community it serves.
