Strengthening Cybersecurity in the Caribbean

In the fast-evolving world of cybersecurity, it’s crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to protecting their data. Junior Gilpin, Senior Cybersecurity Engineer at 800 Tech and a certified Data Protection Officer, shares invaluable insights into data protection, regulatory compliance, and how businesses in the Caribbean can safeguard themselves against emerging cyber threats. 

What is Data Protection? 

Data protection refers to the laws and guidelines that govern how organizations collect, store, and use data. Junior explains, “Most services utilize data. But over time, organizations realized that they were collecting more data than necessary, and some of that data wasn’t even relevant to the service they provided.” Data protection laws are designed to protect personal data from misuse, safeguard customers’ rights, and ensure that organizations are held accountable for mishandling information. 

The Dangers of Data Breaches 

In recent years, the Caribbean has witnessed several high-profile data breaches, with personal identifiable information, including passports and health records, being dumped on the dark web. Junior highlights the risks involved, noting that exposed data can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and even health-related consequences when sensitive information, such as medical records, becomes public. 

“Once your information is out there,” Junior warns, “someone can steal your identity, apply for loans, and even use your credentials for fraud. It’s not just a personal issue, it’s a business problem as well. Companies need to recognize that a breach doesn’t just affect one individual—it compromises their entire customer base.” 

Why Cybersecurity is a Business Problem, Not an IT Problem 

One of the biggest misconceptions is that cybersecurity is solely an IT issue. However, Junior emphasizes that cybersecurity must be viewed as a business problem. “Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue; it’s a company-wide concern. If a breach occurs, it’s the company, not the IT department, that will be held accountable. Businesses need to treat cybersecurity with the urgency it deserves.” 

Many businesses in the region still operate under the misconception that small companies are not targets for cybercriminals. “A small company might think no one wants their data, but cybercriminals will target anyone,” Junior explains. Even “script kiddies”—low-level hackers—can exploit weaknesses to gain access to company systems. 

The Lack of Urgency and Regulatory Compliance 

Despite frequent breaches and increasing risks, many organizations in the Caribbean show little urgency in strengthening their cybersecurity measures. Junior attributes this lack of urgency to a variety of factors, including the belief that small businesses are not at risk. However, the true threat arises when international regulators become involved. 

With the implementation of the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and similar data protection laws worldwide, Junior notes, “When a data breach involves European Union citizens’ data, regulators will come for you. Even if the breach seems localized, the global nature of data protection laws means that businesses can face hefty fines and legal consequences.” 

The Importance of Security Awareness Training 

One of the most effective ways businesses can protect themselves is through security awareness training. Junior explains that most breaches result from social engineering attacks like phishing. “Educating employees on how to recognize and avoid these threats can drastically reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercriminals,” he says. 

Junior emphasizes the importance of continuous, just-in-time security awareness training to ensure that employees remain vigilant and aware of the latest threats. 

The Role of Regulatory Compliance 

Regulatory compliance plays a crucial role in helping businesses stay protected. Junior explains that many laws, like the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) and HIPAA, provide frameworks for securing sensitive data. These regulations ensure that businesses maintain high standards for data protection and comply with industry-specific requirements. 

With the ongoing evolution of cybersecurity threats, it is essential for organizations to remain proactive in adopting both technical and organizational measures to ensure data protection compliance. Junior advocates for IT governance as part of corporate governance to ensure alignment between technology and business goals. 

The importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. With increasing threats to personal and business data, it’s essential that Caribbean businesses prioritize data protection and compliance. By understanding the risks, investing in robust cybersecurity measures, and fostering a culture of security awareness, companies can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cyberattacks. 

As Junior Gilpin puts it, “In 2025, data is the business asset, and organizations that fail to protect it are putting their future at risk