KINGSTON, JAMAICA – Jamaica is grappling with an alarming escalation in cyberattacks, with reports indicating over 34 million attempts in the first six months of 2025 alone. This surge, significantly amplified by the increasing sophistication of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in criminal toolkits, has prompted urgent calls from cybersecurity experts for the creation of a dedicated national cybersecurity task force. The evolving threat landscape is jeopardizing critical sectors and demanding a more robust, unified defense strategy for the island nation.
The AI Accelerant: A New Era of Cyber Threats
Computer experts point to the growing use of AI-enabled tools by cybercriminals as a primary driver behind the escalating number of attacks. These advanced technologies allow malicious actors to operate at a “staggering pace,” developing sophisticated malware, crafting highly personalized phishing campaigns, and conducting reconnaissance with unprecedented efficiency. Trevor Forrest, founder and CEO of 876 Technology Solutions, is a vocal proponent for a stronger national response, stating that AI is making cybercrime “good business” for criminals who can operate remotely with significant impact. Globally, AI is revolutionizing cybercrime, with AI-driven breaches and AI-enhanced obfuscation techniques on the rise, according to industry reports.
Critical Sectors Under Fire
Several key sectors in Jamaica are particularly vulnerable to these advanced threats. These include manufacturing, telecommunications, healthcare, and financial services. The increased reliance on digital systems within these industries, coupled with the adoption of AI and other advanced technologies, makes them prime targets for cybercriminals. Reports highlight that critical infrastructure, such as power grids and transportation networks, are also at risk, with disruptions having the potential to cripple essential services and economic functions. The prevalence of ransomware attacks, which have previously affected Jamaica’s health sector, underscores the severe consequences of successful breaches.
Urgent Call for a National Cybersecurity Task Force
In response to the escalating crisis, Trevor Forrest is urging the Jamaican government to establish a national cybersecurity task force. While the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) maintains a Communication Forensics and Cybercrime Division (CFCD) that investigates certain cases, Forrest argues that a dedicated task force is essential to provide comprehensive legislative advice, guidance, strategy, and policy at a national level. Such a task force, he suggests, should comprise representatives from the security forces, cybersecurity experts, the private sector, and academia. This collaborative body would be better equipped to address the multifaceted nature of modern cyber threats, offering a strategic, high-level approach beyond the investigative capabilities of existing units.
Strengthening Jamaica’s Digital Defenses
Jamaica has existing frameworks in place to bolster its cybersecurity posture. The country launched its National Cybersecurity Strategy in 2015, with subsequent updates focusing on technical measures, human resource development, legal reforms, and public awareness. The government is also reviewing legislation such as the Cybercrimes Act and the Data Protection Act. The JCF’s CFCD and the Major Organised Crime & Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) are actively involved in combating cybercrime. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has also emphasized cybersecurity as a key initiative for national digitalization. However, the sheer volume and evolving nature of AI-powered attacks suggest these measures, while important, may need augmentation by a dedicated, high-level task force to effectively steer national policy and strategy.
A Call to Action
The growing threat of AI-fueled cyberattacks presents a significant challenge to Jamaica’s economic stability and national security. The news surrounding the surge in attacks serves as a stark reminder of the need for proactive and coordinated measures. The proposition for a national cybersecurity task force represents a critical step towards building a more resilient digital future for Jamaica, ensuring that the island nation can navigate the complexities of the modern cyber landscape with enhanced preparedness and strategic foresight. This news underscores the ongoing global race between cyber defenders and attackers, a race that Jamaica must win to protect its digital assets and its citizens.