Blog post

"Cybersecurity as an Essential Need for SMEs in Mexico"

In a world where cyberattacks multiply daily, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Mexico are becoming increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. The webinar “From Threats to Peace of Mind: Network Security for Mexican Businesses” clearly highlighted the urgency of implementing proper cybersecurity measures. This post aims to break down the key points addressed in the event, argue why cybersecurity should not be seen as a trend but as an inherent necessity, and finally offer practical recommendations for SMEs.

Cybersecurity Is an Inherent Need for SMEs in Mexico

During the webinar, cybersecurity experts from companies like Fortinet and academics from universities emphasized that cybersecurity is not a trend, but a fundamental need for all organizations—especially for Mexican SMEs. While large corporations have specialized IT teams, small and medium businesses often underestimate the importance of cybersecurity, putting themselves at risk of increasingly sophisticated attacks.

Luis Hernández, Senior Manager at Fortinet, noted that Mexico ranks among the top countries in Latin America targeted by cybercriminals. Its proximity to the United States and the growth of nearshoring have increased Mexico’s visibility to attackers. For this reason, it is crucial for SMEs to understand that cybersecurity is a cultural and preventive matter—far beyond a temporary "trend."

Major Risks and the Impact of Lack of Cybersecurity

The first step toward greater awareness is understanding the risks. During the event, it was mentioned how companies have had to shut down for weeks after falling victim to cyberattacks. The effects of an attack go beyond data or financial loss; they can also impact operational continuity and business reputation.

In Mexico, cybercrime is increasingly targeting vulnerable sectors such as SMEs, which often lack the resources and strategies to protect themselves. The most common types of attacks include:

• Phishing: Scams that seek to obtain personal information through fraudulent emails.

• Ransomware: Data or systems are "kidnapped" with the threat of deletion or inaccessibility unless a ransom is paid.

• Social Engineering: Psychological manipulation used to gain access to systems or sensitive data.

These threats are not exclusive to large enterprises. SMEs are also attractive targets due to their lack of preventive measures, outdated or even non-existent security systems. Additionally, the lack of cybersecurity training among employees increases vulnerabilities, as attackers often exploit misinformation or poor daily practices, such as weak passwords or opening suspicious emails.

Luis Hernández emphasized that, although cybersecurity has been a relevant topic for years, attacks have intensified since the pandemic. This is due to the increased use of digital technologies and, therefore, a greater attack surface. In this context, it is vital for SMEs to make cybersecurity a core part of their business strategy.