Computer scams in an agricultural community in the interior of Ecuador

Abstract

The importance of adopting a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach to protect Ecuadorian rural communities against computer scams allows for strengthening both the technological and legal capabilities of the country. The objective of the research is to evaluate the impact and vulnerability of agricultural communities in the interior of Ecuador against computer scams. The approach used is mixed, which combined quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, analyzing how low access to technology, lack of knowledge in cybersecurity and the insufficiency of current Ecuadorian legislation have left these communities exposed to electronic fraud. The results revealed a high incidence of ignorance regarding protection measures against digital scams. The majority of respondents, although they use technology in their daily activities, do not know how to prevent fraud, which puts both their personal data and their finances at risk. Additionally, interviews with community leaders and legal experts highlighted that current legislation is inadequate to address the growing threat of cybercrime in rural areas, impeding an effective response to these crimes.  In addition, significant deficiencies were identified in the digital security infrastructure and in the capacity of local authorities to investigate and punish these crimes. The urgent need for a series of reforms: from updating the legal framework to the implementation of educational and preventive programs, through the training of local authorities in the use of advanced technological tools.

Keywords: Fraud, Cybersecurity, Rural community, Technologies.