Cybersecurity and Data Protection in Panama: Implications in the face of digital violence

Abstract

Objective: to analyse the legal and preventive implications in terms of cybersecurity and personal data protection, their effectiveness and limitations in the face of digital violence facilitated by technology, considering the current regulatory update. Methodology: qualitative approach, exploratory-descriptive type. The key informants were selected through purposive sampling and comprised eight (8) professionals with experience in digital law, cybersecurity and personal data protection. Legal documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews were used as data collection techniques. Instruments: documentary observation matrix and interview guide designed by the researcher and validated by experts. Triangulation and descriptive analysis were used to discuss the results. Results: the content, scope, coherence and updating of the current regulatory framework were examined, identifying advances in criminal classification and international cooperation resulting from the 2025 reforms, as well as limitations in terms of regulatory articulation, prevention, human rights approach, differentiated protection of victims and institutional response to emerging forms of digital violence. Conclusions: it was determined that, although Panama strengthened its legal response to cybercrime through Laws 477 and 478 of 2025, the system still does not provide comprehensive protection against digital violence. The need to develop legal and preventive guidelines based on three dimensions is reaffirmed: substantive regulatory strengthening; institutional and procedural consolidation; and preventive and restorative measures aimed at the effective protection of fundamental rights in digital environments.