Introduction
Mexicans should no longer feel insecure at ATMs and public transportation. The National Urban Security Public Enquiry (ENSU) consistently reports that these are the spaces where people feel least safe. In the second quarter of 2025, 72.2% of the population felt insecure at ATMs and 65.0% on public transportation.
Historical Context and Persistent Issues
These figures are not new; the ENSU began in 2013, and by March 2016, 80% of adults felt unsafe at ATMs and 72.7% on public transportation. Over the past decade, governments have been aware of this issue but have failed to transform it. The lack of decisive political action has persisted during the digital technology, smart mobility, and fintech-driven financial transformation era.
Despite available technological solutions, governments have treated technology as a means for regulation or tax collection rather than embracing it to enhance security. Platforms like DiDi, Uber, and Rappi have faced regulatory scrutiny instead of being viewed as allies in reducing insecurity.
Technological Advantages of Mobility Platforms
Mobility platforms are more than just ride-hailing or food delivery apps; they offer integrated security systems. Features such as real-time monitoring, audio recording, emergency alerts, driver and passenger identification, travel history, shared rides, mutual ratings, and digital payment methods contribute to a safer environment compared to traditional public transportation, including taxis.
These platforms provide increased safety for both men and women, especially in public transportation settings.
Fintech and Digital Banking Solutions
Digital financial applications enable Mexicans to avoid carrying cash, offering secure, transparent, and traceable transactions. However, the government still promotes traditional infrastructure, which requires constant vigilance or companionship when using ATMs.
As of March 2025, Mexico had 64,356 ATMs in branches and 30,304 outside them (Banco de México). Despite their number, these ATMs are surrounded by insecurity concerns, such as express kidnappings or the fear of being robbed.
The number of ATM operations has also decreased. The highest operation volume was in the July-September 2019 quarter, with 493.4 million transactions worth over 964.7 million pesos. In contrast, the first quarter of 2025 saw 324.4 million operations worth 805.2 million pesos, indicating that more Mexicans are avoiding ATMs due to convenience or fear.
Stagnation in Security Improvement
Historical data from the ENSU shows that in almost a decade, perceived insecurity in these physical spaces has only reduced by 10 percentage points. The downward trend between 2018 and 2023 reversed in the last three quarters, indicating that security conditions have not improved but rather stagnated—which signifies regression.
The Need for Digital Inclusion and Financial Technology
Digital and financial inclusion is not a luxury but a pressing necessity. Authorities should view connectivity as a crucial tool for social transformation, fostering digital infrastructure, creating incentives for secure platform usage, and promoting internet access nationwide.
Instead, the government focuses on regulating digital platforms’ labor conditions, which has led to increased fares and restricted access for those who need these services the most. Digital platforms should be a mechanism for social mobility, democratizing access to quality services and exercising fundamental rights.
The Banco del Bienestar’s 3,000+ branches are commendable but limited if digital banking potential is ignored. The most vulnerable population, lacking traditional bank access, faces higher risks of cash theft, public transportation assaults, and financial marginalization. Meanwhile, fintech companies await supportive policies instead of regulatory hurdles.
Recommendations for Change
To genuinely reduce perceived insecurity in physical spaces, we must change financial and mobility habits. The solution lies in less cash and more digital payments, fewer ATMs and more mobile transactions, and safer platforms replacing risky public transportation.
We don’t need to reinvent the wheel; we can utilize existing tools like the internet, apps, digital security systems, and technological innovation.
There are no excuses. Seventy-two point two percent of Mexicans still feel unsafe at ATMs, and 65% on public transportation. It’s been a decade of stagnation, and technology is ready; what’s missing is political will to serve the people.
It’s time for governments to view technology as an ally and solution to historical citizenship problems, not a force to control or a captive taxpayer. Investing, connecting, innovating, and transforming is the path forward.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the main concerns regarding security in Mexico? The primary concerns are insecurity at ATMs and public transportation, with 72.2% of Mexicans feeling unsafe at ATMs and 65% on public transport.
- Why have past efforts to improve security failed? Past efforts have been insufficient due to the lack of decisive political action and the failure to embrace technology as a tool for enhancing security.
- How can mobility platforms contribute to increased safety? Mobility platforms offer integrated security systems, such as real-time monitoring, audio recording, and passenger identification, which contribute to a safer environment compared to traditional public transportation.
- What role do fintech and digital banking play in addressing security concerns? Digital financial applications enable cashless transactions, reducing the need for large amounts of physical currency and associated risks.
- Why is digital inclusion crucial for improving security? Digital and financial inclusion can empower vulnerable populations, providing them with secure, transparent, and traceable transactions while reducing their reliance on cash.
- What should governments do to address security concerns? Governments should view technology as an ally and invest in digital infrastructure, foster secure platform usage, promote internet access, and encourage technological adoption to improve citizens’ lives.
