Global digitalization is expanding both opportunities and risks. In Chile, strong technology adoption and a new Cybersecurity Framework Law are transforming the country into a regional leader in addressing cyber threats.
The acceleration of the digital transformation on a global level has driven governments and companies to migrate services and infrastructure to the cloud.
However, this technological progress has also expanded the attack surface for increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Incidents are no longer limited to the virtual sphere: they now affect critical physical operations such as water utilities, energy systems, and manufacturing.
In fact, consulting firm McKinsey forecasts that global costs associated with cyberattacks will exceed US$10.5 billion in 2025, driven by the growing frequency and complexity of attacks.
Chile: From regional leader to global cybersecurity player
In this context, Chile has taken significant steps in cybersecurity, being ranked 20th worldwide in the National Cyber Security Index (NCSI) 2025, and consolidating its position as a cybersecurity leader in Latin America.
Nevertheless, challenges remain. Entel’s Cybersecurity Report 2025 ranks Chile as the fourth most affected country by ransomware in Latin America, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen defenses and capabilities.
Cybersecurity Framework Law: A regulatory milestone for digital development
As part of the Digital Chile 2035 strategy, the Cybersecurity Framework Law (Law No. 21.663) was approved in 2024. This regulation establishes the foundations for a safer and more resilient digital ecosystem.
The law created the National Cybersecurity Agency (ANCI) as the central regulatory authority, and defines binding obligations for two strategic groups:
- Essential service providers
- Operators of vital importance
New obligations include the implementation of security management systems, continuous risk assessments, and measures to mitigate the impact of cyber incidents.
Of the 1,712 institutions initially evaluated, ANCI designated 915 organizations as operators of vital importance, of which 413 (45%) are digital infrastructure and services providers, incorporating them into the strategic core of national cybersecurity.
| Regidter of operators of vital importance | Number of organizations |
| Digital infrastructure, digital services, and IT services | 413 |
| Institutional healthcare providers | 114 |
| Electricity generation, transmission, or distribution services, and the National Electricity Coordinator | 147 |
| State administration bodies | 158 |
| Banking activities, financial services, and payment systems | 34 |
| Telecommunications services | 29 |
| State-owned and public-sector companies | 20 |
| TOTAL | 915 |
Market opportunities and the urgent need to develop talent
The consolidation of regulation and increasing digitalization are driving a robust market for digital security solutions.
According to consulting firm IDC, the Latin American cybersecurity market will reach US$10.6 billion in 2025, with projected growth of 13.9% in 2026.
In Chile, the market is expected to reach US$658 million in 2025, with estimated growth of 12.4% in 2026. This momentum translates into strong demand for specialized cybersecurity professionals.
A study by the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) reveals that Chile currently faces a shortage of 28,000 cybersecurity specialists, a figure that could rise to 63,500 professionals by 2026 if the pace of technological adoption continues.
Recognizing this challenge, Chilean authorities are working with universities and technical institutes to expand talent development in key areas, strengthening the country’s competitiveness in a rapidly expanding global market.
Cybersecurity as a pillar of Chile’s digital economy
In a world where cyber threats evolve as rapidly as technology itself, Chile is positioning itself as a strategic cybersecurity player, supported by its regulatory framework and the growth of its market and specialized talent.
This environment not only protects digital assets and critical services, but also opens up opportunities for investment, innovation, and regional leadership.
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