At a time when digital transformation has accelerated in Jamaica, the need for stronger and safer cybersecurity practices has never been more urgent.
In observance of Cyber Security Awareness Month, celebrated each October, BCMG Insurance Brokers took a leading role in exploring the theme “Cyber Smart, Nation Strong: Protecting Jamaica in a Digital World”. The company’s leadership championed national awareness, offering insights into how organisations and individuals can better secure their digital environments.
According to Pete Walker, chief operating officer at BCMG Insurance Brokers, the theme reflects the organisation’s core values.
“Innovation is central to BCMG, and technology is a key area for driving that innovation. Being cyber smart is about empowering our clients and the nation to embrace digital transformation safely and confidently. It aligns with our mission to protect businesses and communities by providing forward-thinking risk solutions,” he shared.
Growing digital adoption across Jamaica has brought opportunity, but it has also increased exposure to threats. On this note, Walker noted that the country’s digital progress cannot be separated from its cybersecurity readiness.
“Jamaica cannot successfully grow digitally without proper cybersecurity infrastructure. Both go hand in hand. As more businesses and individuals rely on digital platforms, the risks increase, making awareness and preparedness essential for national progress,” he explained.
BCMG has observed a shift in how clients are approaching cyber risk. Businesses have become more alert and more willing to adopt protective solutions. He added that companies are taking cyber risks more seriously and are expressing greater interest in insurance as a tool to mitigate those risks.
“We’ve seen a shift from viewing cyber threats as distant possibilities to recognising them as immediate business concerns,” Walker shared.
Partnerships and insurance
To help organisations build resilience, BCMG provides structured risk assessments and advisory services. Through partnerships with cybersecurity firms, the company facilitates incident response and specialised testing. While client confidentiality prevents specific examples from being shared, Walker confirmed that BCMG has supported several organisations through cyber incidents, ensuring rapid recovery and reducing financial fallout.
The company’s cyber insurance policies are curated to be flexible and comprehensive. They include incident response, legal and regulatory advice, IT forensics and crisis communication. Coverage extends to cybercrime, including funds transfer theft, ransomware, impersonation fraud, system recovery, business interruption and reputational harm. Liability protection for privacy breaches, management exposure and media-related risks is also available.
“These policies help businesses recover quickly from cyber incidents, minimise financial losses and maintain their reputation,” Walker said.
Client engagement
A significant part of BCMG’s work during Cyber Security Awareness Month includes client engagement and public education. Aligning with partners such as Guardsman Cyber Security and national media companies, including the Gleaner, BCMG is focusing on expanding its outreach. The company has tailored cybersecurity discussions to ensure that both small enterprises and large corporations understand their vulnerabilities.
“Cybersecurity is a part of all our client meetings and discussions,” Walker said. “We ensure that every organisation understands the steps they can take to strengthen their defences.”
Walker emphasised that the private sector’s role in national digital safety extends beyond compliance.
“The private sector must educate itself about data protection laws and play an active role in reporting suspicious activities. By fostering a culture of cyber awareness and compliance, businesses can help safeguard national digital infrastructure,” he noted.
For individuals, adopting safer digital habits remains essential. Walker recommends simple practices such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, updating devices, limiting personal information online and verifying emails and links before interacting with them.
Looking ahead, BCMG intends to expand its cyber advisory work and continue building partnerships that strengthen national resilience.
“We are committed to finding innovative insurance solutions and forming new partnerships to deliver tailored support for our clients. Our goal is to ensure businesses have the resources and protection they need to thrive in a digital world,” Walker said.
With cyberattacks increasing globally and locally, BCMG’s message for Jamaica is clear: becoming cyber smart is not optional. It is a national responsibility and an essential foundation for a stronger digital future.
Source: Our Today