By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica’s state-owned telecommunications company, Kölbi, has concluded its second annual training tour, equipping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and, for the first time, senior citizens with crucial digital skills. This year’s program focused on artificial intelligence, digital security, and business strategies for SMEs, while also addressing the growing concern of cybercrime targeting the elderly.
The initiative reached 250 SMEs and 250 senior citizens across Limón, Pérez Zeledón, Jacó, and the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). Kölbi’s decision to include seniors in the training stems from a significant rise in scams and cybercrimes targeting individuals over 65.
To understand the legal implications surrounding digital literacy, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Increasing digital literacy is crucial not only for individual empowerment but also for fostering a fair and competitive marketplace. Lack of digital literacy can create vulnerabilities to online fraud and exploitation, highlighting the need for robust consumer protection laws and educational initiatives. Businesses, too, must prioritize digital literacy training for employees to ensure data security and compliance with evolving regulations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the interconnectedness of digital literacy, individual empowerment, and market fairness. His emphasis on the need for both legal frameworks and educational initiatives to combat online threats is particularly insightful, reminding us that a multi-pronged approach is essential to navigate the complexities of the digital age. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on this crucial issue.
We decided to act and provide tools and knowledge that allow older adults to better protect themselves in the digital environment, especially in the use of cell phones.
Paola Jiménez, Head of Kölbi’s Commercial Division
According to data released by Kölbi, the Public Ministry was handling 6,182 cases related to crimes against senior citizens as of October 2024. A staggering 1,592 of these cases involved deception or scams through information manipulation.
The four-hour workshops for seniors covered a range of topics, from basic and advanced cell phone functions to navigating apps like WhatsApp and exploring integrated AI features such as Meta AI. Practical skills like using Google Maps for navigation were also emphasized.
Digital security formed a core component of the senior citizen training. Participants learned to identify red flags for potential fraud and developed simple protocols for online protection. Kölbi stressed the importance of mindful device usage, encouraging participants to connect with purpose.
Concurrent workshops for SMEs focused on leveraging AI for business improvement. Participants identified processes within their organizations that could benefit from AI integration and learned to use tools like ChatGPT and Copilot for streamlined writing, informed decision-making, and time-saving automation.
The training also addressed crucial business strategies, emphasizing the importance of sales for entrepreneurial survival. Kölbi demonstrated how AI can strengthen marketing efforts and drive sales growth. In the digital security segment, the company presented protection guidelines and highlighted the necessity of robust protocols for responding to potential threats.
This dual-pronged approach by Kölbi demonstrates a commitment to both fostering economic growth through SME empowerment and protecting vulnerable populations from the increasing risks of the digital landscape.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Kölbi
About Kölbi:
Kölbi, also known as the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), is the state-owned telecommunications and electricity company of Costa Rica. It provides a wide range of services, including fixed-line and mobile telephony, internet access, and electricity distribution. Kölbi plays a vital role in Costa Rica’s infrastructure and is committed to bridging the digital divide through initiatives like the digital literacy training program.
For further information, visit the office of the Public Ministry of Costa Rica
About Public Ministry of Costa Rica:
The Public Ministry of Costa Rica is an independent institution responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. It plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice. The Ministry’s statistics on crimes against senior citizens highlight the growing need for digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence in Costa Rica, driven by a deep commitment to ethical practice and innovative solutions. The firm’s long history of service spans a wide range of industries, demonstrating its adaptability and dedication to client success. Beyond its legal expertise, Bufete de Costa Rica actively invests in empowering communities through accessible legal education, ensuring that knowledge becomes a tool for a stronger, more equitable society.
