Digitalization has changed the way we act and even the way we think. The digital revolution we are experiencing keeps us constantly connected and expands the reach of our world. At the same time, it also opens the door to new threats that stalk us for our data: the most valuable treasure in the information society. Prudence and common sense are our best defense as individuals against digital scams.
Cybercrime is currently one of the greatest concerns on an international scale, both for countries and for various sectors of the economy: public administrations, companies, and individuals. Failing to recognize this makes it easy for criminals. We must not do that.
In this regard, we all have a responsibility to combat this scourge. Companies and authorities must invest in protection and in strengthening collaboration between all parties involved. As individuals, we must assume our share of responsibility when it comes to protecting our own data. It is advisable to protect our information, not only because of the damage its theft may cause us, but also because it can be used to attack our loved ones.
This is not about demonising the advantages of the internet, which allows us to access public and private products and services, and above all enables us to communicate. It is clear that advancing the digital skills of society will allow us to take full advantage of the transformation we are experiencing. Digital innovation has been key to improving our daily lives during lockdown and the worst moments of the pandemic. However, making better use of the internet also means strengthening our resilience against its risks, which are very real. We often tend to think that cyberattacks are things that happen to others, but today any of us can fall victim to a cyber scam. Faced with an increasingly global and sophisticated threat, collaboration and awareness are the best shield to protect us.
José Luis Martínez Campuzano, spokesperson for the Spanish Banking Association
