Latin American banks confront cyber threats and AI-driven shift

Cybersecurity incidents targeting banking infrastructure are rising across Latin America. A recent report by LAC4, DigiAmericas and the Organization of American States notes that the financial and insurance sector accounts for 39.47 % of reported cyber incidents in the region, with Brazil, Mexico and Argentina alone experiencing almost 44 % of attacks. The region represents roughly 12 % of global cyber‑attacks, highlighting growing criminal interest in banking data and transactions. ATMs, despite the expansion of digital channels, remain critical touchpoints and are increasingly targeted by sophisticated malware and remote‑access exploits.

At the same time, artificial‑intelligence agents are poised to transform banking services. In Chile, a study by Entel Digital shows that 71 % of banking executives view AI as "revolutionary" for their operations, and a separate Accenture survey finds that 71 % of consumers would accept an AI assistant integrated into their primary banking app. The adoption of AI agents is expected to shift competition toward platforms that offer transparent rates, clear fees and measurable service levels, prompting regulators such as Chile's Open Finance system to focus on building trust between customers and algorithms.