The Caribbean technology landscape has seen a dynamic week of developments, with artificial intelligence taking a prominent role in cybersecurity strategies, significant connectivity issues impacting the Cayman Islands, and notable advancements in innovation and digital transformation across the region.
AI Takes the Helm in Caribbean Cybersecurity Efforts
As digital transformation accelerates across the Eastern Caribbean, businesses are increasingly prioritizing artificial intelligence (AI) for their cybersecurity strategies in 2026. A comprehensive PwC study reveals that AI investment is leading cybersecurity budget increases, with AI security tools identified as a top spending priority. This focus comes as a significant fraction of organizations globally remain inadequately prepared to defend against escalating digital threats. The report also highlights persistent cyber skills gaps, particularly in applying AI for cyber defense, posing a challenge for regional firms.
In response to rising cybercrime risks, Digicel Business and Symptai have launched a crucial initiative offering free dark web scans to businesses throughout the Caribbean until November 21, 2025. This program aims to help organizations detect exposed sensitive data early and bolster their defenses against cyberattacks amidst increasing reliance on digital tools like online banking and remote work platforms. Experts note that the region is a prime target due to a scarcity of local cybersecurity expertise, making proactive measures like these vital for protecting customer trust and mitigating financial losses.
Flow Faces Regulatory Scrutiny Over Persistent Outages in Cayman Islands
In the Cayman Islands, persistent service disruptions affecting Flow have drawn the attention of the Utility Regulation and Competition Office (URCO). Following recent interruptions, including a concerning incident where customers experienced inability to reach 911 emergency services, URCO has intensified its engagement with Flow. The regulator has raised serious concerns regarding the adequacy of Flow’s on-island technical resources and its reliance on external network elements and offshore operations, which may be hindering timely service restoration and local infrastructure resilience.
URCO has formally required Flow to provide a detailed technical report outlining the causes of these outages and mitigation strategies. Officials emphasized that reliable telecommunications are essential for public safety and national security, deeming recurring service degradations unacceptable. This situation highlights a broader regional challenge of ensuring robust and resilient telecom infrastructure, particularly for essential services.
Cayman Robotics Team Achieves Record-Breaking Performance
Young innovators from the Cayman Islands have once again demonstrated their technical prowess on the global stage. The Cayman Islands National Robotics Team achieved its highest placement to date at the 2025 FIRST Global Challenge in Panama, securing an impressive 34th position out of 191 national teams. Supported by Dart’s Minds Inspired program, the team’s performance showcased the strength of the nation’s growing STEM community. Notably, the team also stood out for its all-female drive team, inspiring many participants to pursue further careers in science and technology.
Barbados Integrates Ride-Sharing with Local Taxi Services
Barbados is modernizing its transportation sector through the introduction of “Uber Taxi,” a platform that exclusively partners with licensed Barbadian taxi drivers. This initiative aims to blend digital convenience with local expertise, offering visitors seamless and reliable transport options while ensuring regulated fares and empowering local operators to expand their reach. While initial concerns were raised by some taxi operators regarding foreign competition, assurances have been provided that the service will strictly adhere to local regulations and licensing requirements, integrating technology on local terms.
Retail Giant Standard Distributors Transitions to Digital Lending
In a significant shift for the retail landscape, Standard Distributors, a brand with an 80-year history across the Caribbean, has been sold to the digital lender Term Finance (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited. The company will be rebranded as Standard Credit, focusing on becoming a dedicated credit provider and e-commerce platform. This move marks the end of an era for the well-known furniture and appliance retailer, with existing hire-purchase agreements set to continue under new ownership.
Guyana’s Connectivity Bolstered by One Communications’ Fiber Expansion
One Communications is significantly enhancing Guyana’s digital infrastructure with the expansion of its fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) network, now reaching over 75% of households in the country. This substantial investment aims to bridge the digital divide and support Guyana’s broader digital transformation agenda by providing high-speed, reliable internet access to both urban and rural communities. The company’s efforts position Guyana as a fast-rising broadband market within the Caribbean, fostering greater digital inclusion and economic opportunities.
This week’s news underscores the rapid pace of technological change across the Caribbean, highlighting both the opportunities presented by AI and digital services and the critical need to address infrastructure challenges and cybersecurity vulnerabilities to ensure inclusive and resilient digital growth.