Cyber Security Threats & Vulnerabilities - A British engineering firm lost $25 million due to an AI-generated scam involving a deepfake CFO in January 2024 [1] - Digital illiteracy poses a significant threat to cyber security, making users the weakest link [3] - AI-powered cyber threats, such as deepfakes, are increasingly difficult to recognize for those lacking digital literacy [5] - Digital transformation initiatives, like Ecuador's agenda transformational, increase the potential for cyber security breaches [7] - Cyber security breaches are on the rise, exemplified by attacks on the Bank of Pincha, the municipality of Kito, and Santoi Sika [7][8] Proposed Solution: SIMCAP SDI - The industry suggests Ecuador develop a proactive, scalable national system (SIMCAP SDI) for training and certifying its digital security workforce [10][11] - SIMCAP SDI would be a career-long ladder ensuring sufficient digital literacy skills based on interaction with the digital system of the government [11] - The proposed structure includes five levels, from basic knowledge for all public sector employees to leadership responsible for national strategy [12][13] - Level one certification, updated annually, is critical as a basic security awareness requirement for all individuals [14] International Benchmarks & Strategic Assets - The United States Department of Defense (DoD) mandates cyber security certification for governments and contractors [14] - Countries like Singapore, Australia, the European Union, and Canada have implemented similar cyber security measures [15] - A SIMCAP-certified workforce is a national strategic asset, providing security, trust, and robust protection for critical infrastructure [16]