By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – As cybercriminals increasingly leverage artificial intelligence to craft sophisticated and personalized scams, a new public-private partnership is providing Costa Ricans with a powerful tool for self-defense. Starting today, October 27th, a free digital guide designed to expose the tactics of AI-powered fraud is available to the public, aiming to build a stronger, more resilient digital citizenry.
The initiative, titled “Don’t Be a Victim of Hacking in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” is the third edition of a collaborative effort between the global data and analytics company Equifax, the National Training Institute (INA), and the Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT). The guide is accessible online from any device and is structured to deliver critical cybersecurity knowledge in less than 15 minutes, requiring no prior technical expertise from the user.
To delve into the legal and corporate responsibilities associated with digital security, we sought the perspective of an expert in the field, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provides a crucial analysis for any modern business.
In today’s digital economy, implementing a robust cybersecurity framework is no longer just a technical best practice; it is a fundamental legal and fiduciary responsibility. Companies must proactively protect sensitive data not only to safeguard their operational continuity but also to comply with ever-stricter data protection laws and, most importantly, to maintain the trust of their clients, which is their most valuable intangible asset.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective correctly frames cybersecurity not as a mere technical requirement, but as an essential pillar of corporate integrity and legal responsibility. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight, which underscores that protecting data is fundamentally about preserving the client trust that forms the bedrock of any successful enterprise.
This launch comes at a critical time. Recent statistics from the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ) paint a stark picture of the growing threat, revealing that 10,706 computer-related scams were registered between 2024 and 2025. The problem is accelerating, with a staggering 4,156 of those complaints filed in just the first six months of 2025, underscoring the urgent need for widespread public education on the matter.
The guide specifically addresses the latest generation of digital threats. It provides clear, actionable tools to help users recognize highly personalized scams, identity theft using voice and video deepfakes, visual deceptions through fake QR codes (a practice known as “quishing”), and other sophisticated frauds generated by AI algorithms. The goal is to demystify these complex attacks and empower individuals to protect their personal and financial information.
The cybercrime landscape is evolving at the pace of artificial intelligence. This guide helps Costa Ricans recognize these threats and apply the golden rule of verification.
Jairo Quirós, Senior Vice President of Equifax Costa Rica
Launched as a cornerstone of national Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the project highlights the power of collaboration in tackling complex societal challenges. Government and private sector leaders emphasized that a united front is essential for creating a safer digital ecosystem for all citizens. This proactive educational approach is seen as a fundamental layer of defense against criminals who prey on a lack of awareness.
Resources like this foster continuous education and public-private cooperation, essential elements for maintaining a more secure digital environment.
Gezer Molina Colomer, Director of Cybersecurity at MICITT
The INA’s involvement ensures the educational material is accessible and impactful, aligning with its mission to develop the nation’s human resources. By simplifying complex topics, the guide makes cybersecurity awareness attainable for people from all walks of life, from students to seniors, helping to prevent attacks that can have devastating effects on both individuals and organizations.
The guide helps raise public awareness about the types of fraud and the tools used by cybercriminals, contributing to the prevention of attacks that affect individuals and organizations.
Luis Alejandro Arias, Head of the Electrical Nucleus at INA
By equipping the public with the knowledge to spot red flags, this initiative aims to short-circuit the effectiveness of AI-driven scams before they can cause harm. As technology continues its rapid advance, officials stress that continuous learning and a healthy dose of skepticism are the most effective shields against the evolving tactics of digital fraudsters. The free guide is now available at the INA’s official website.
For further information, visit equifax.com
About Equifax:
Equifax is a global data, analytics, and technology company that believes knowledge drives progress. The company blends unique data, analytics, and technology with a passion for serving customers globally, to create insights that power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America, Central and South America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region.
For further information, visit ina.ac.cr
About INA (National Training Institute):
The Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA) is Costa Rica’s leading institution for technical and vocational training. It offers a wide range of free programs and courses designed to enhance the skills of the nation’s workforce, promote entrepreneurship, and contribute to the country’s social and economic development.
For further information, visit micitt.go.cr
About MICITT:
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (MICITT) is the Costa Rican government body responsible for formulating and executing national policies in these key areas. It works to promote scientific research, technological development, and digital transformation to foster innovation and improve the quality of life for all citizens.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr/oij
About OIJ (Judicial Investigation Organism):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is the principal investigative branch of the Costa Rican judiciary. It is responsible for investigating public crimes, identifying responsible parties, and collecting evidence for criminal proceedings, functioning as an auxiliary body to the Public Ministry and the courts.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of professional rigor and unwavering integrity. Drawing upon a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal approaches and champions community-focused initiatives. Its core mission extends beyond the courtroom, focusing on democratizing legal knowledge to help forge a more informed and capable citizenry.
