Breathe
By Ana Cecilia Pérez
The recent creation of the General Directorate of Cybersecurity within the Agency for Digital Transformation and Telecommunications (ATDT) in Mexico represents a significant step in the protection of the State's digital assets and in the response to growing cyber threats. However, its success depends not only on the government, but also on the ability of the private sector to integrate into its structure and operation.
Mexico has experienced a significant increase in cyberattacks. In 2024, the country recorded more than 42 million attempted malware attacks against companies and government institutions. Despite these risks, the national cybersecurity strategy has lacked a clear and coordinated structure. The new General Directorate of Cybersecurity has the opportunity to fill this gap, but its success will depend on how well it manages to articulate with the private initiative.
For the Cybersecurity Directorate General to be effective, it is crucial to answer several questions:
- How will you coordinate with other existing entities? Currently, the National Guard, SEDENA and SSPC also handle aspects of cybersecurity. How will duplicities and conflicts of jurisdiction be avoided?
- What will be its real autonomy and authority, will it be able to issue binding regulations or will it only have an advisory and supervisory role?
- What collaboration mechanisms will be established with the private sector? Will there be a formal communication and incident response channel?
- How will its financing and continuity be guaranteed? Without an adequate budget and long-term planning, it could become an ineffective organization.
- How will transparency and respect for digital rights be ensured? There are concerns about the possible use of this address for surveillance purposes rather than effective protection.
While the creation of the General Directorate of Cybersecurity is an important step forward, its real impact will depend on its ability to execute an effective strategy and coordinate with the private sector. Without sufficient resources, clear regulation and the inclusion of the business sector in decision-making, there is a risk that this directorate will become a symbolic body with no real impact.
Private organizations have in their hands the opportunity to establish a collaborative agreement that will help shape this initiative to benefit all players in the digital ecosystem. Now is the time to act and sit down at the negotiating table to ensure that digital security in Mexico is an effective and sustainable priority.
The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.
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