As Colombia rolls out its 5G network, experts warn of potential cybersecurity challenges due to the lack of proper infrastructure and legislation.
Experts say China needs to build the ability to properly adapt to the complexities inherent in these networks, especially to protect itself from risks associated with technology provided by Chinese companies. .
“Chinese law creates a framework in which companies, particularly those in critical technologies such as 5G networks, cannot refuse to cooperate with the government in activities that may violate privacy or data security outside China. ” said Carlos Augusto Chacón, Secretary General of Hernán Echavarría. Colombia's Orozaga Institute of Political Science (ICP) said. Dear logo “This poses a significant risk to any country seeking to deploy 5G technology provided by Chinese companies, as this technology could be used to facilitate espionage or interference by the Chinese government.”
A recent ICP report details some of these regulations. These include the National Intelligence Law (2017), which requires Chinese companies to support and cooperate with national intelligence activities. National Security Act (2015). Holding organizations and citizens accountable for reporting to and cooperating with national authorities on national security issues. and the Company Law (2013), which provides for the necessary presence of Chinese Communist Party (CCP) cells within companies, further strengthening the CCP's control over company operations and reinforcing its lack of independence from the government and its policies. I've confirmed it.
“One of the most important aspects to consider in the development of 5G technology is the use of a larger frequency spectrum, which increases the number of antennas and connected devices.” US Magazine cyber war “This increases our exposure to sabotage, espionage, and cyberattacks from both malicious actors and rival nations.”
There is no doubt that fifth-generation mobile networks offer many benefits such as faster connection speeds and data transmission, but cybercriminals are using these same benefits to rob and defraud people. It also raises serious and well-founded concerns that people could spy on them, says Columbia Magazine. Semana It was reported on March 7th.
“The most important thing is for people to be aware and educated to deal with these cybersecurity risks. Another thing is to be very careful about data management. The main objective of most attacks is is to allow any kind of misuse or theft of personal or sensitive data,” Mauricio Arias Fernández, technology consulting partner at audit and legal consulting firm PwC Colombia, told Colombian.media 360. “The important thing is to be fully aware of all the security and backup copies for data management from various mobile devices and computer equipment.”
According to IBM's X-Force Threat Intelligence Index 2024 According to the report, Colombia has the second highest incidence of cyberattacks in Latin America, at 17%. These attacks included impersonating users and exploiting technical vulnerabilities in computers and public programs, the Colombian daily reported. el universal It was reported on March 7th.
“Globally, this issue is a priority in different jurisdictions. It is essential [for Colombia] “Define the framework for international cooperation with third countries and industry, and actively participate in the network of international security experts on all issues related to 5G technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity,” Chacon said. Stated. “Design and implement a cybersecurity training program for carriers, government agencies, and the general public to increase situational awareness about the risks of the technology provided by Chinese carriers for 5G networks.” There is a need.”
Colombia is an attractive market for companies that manufacture mobile phones.Research by global data analytics company Canalys, Colombian daily La Repubblica found that four Chinese companies are among the top five best-selling brands domestically and in Latin America.
“We need to ensure supplier diversification to avoid dependence of critical components of 5G networks on a single supplier and diversify the available technology options,” Chacon said. Stated. “Priority should be given to investments that contribute to local technology development.” […] It is about reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, especially those that are internationally questionable or that pose problems regarding the independence and reliability of information and data management of networks, servers, and clouds. ”
5G is not available in all of Colombia, but a study by nPerf, a French company that measures internet speeds, shows that 13 cities already have access to 5G thanks to three major carriers, reported Mexico magazine. Reported. El Economista report. These include Bogota, Medellin, Cali, Bucaramanga, Barranquilla, and Cartagena.
