Cartels targeting US firms in Mexico for theft, extortion

“We’ve also seen in some cases that some cartels have forced their way in through threat of violence and coercion into piggybacking onto these companies’ distribution networks to transport their drugs or human trafficking or whatever the case may be."

In an article for Border Report, Global Guardian's Director of Intelligence, Michael Ballard, provided analysis on cartels in Mexico may be targeting U.S. firms and their partners with with the threat of extortion, hijacking of trucks, and other criminal activities. 

Extortion, Hijacking and Coercion: U.S. Companies in Mexico Face Increasing Threats from Cartels

"They basically hide cocaine, heroin, meth, fentanyl in shipments that have been pre-cleared by U.S. Customs. It's an easy way to get their product across the border."

In an article for The Latin Times, Global Guardian Director of Intelligence Michael Ballard gave additional context into the recently released Worldwide Threat Assessment, with insight as to how American companies operating in Mexico are facing mounting threats from cartels. 

Safer Travels: Wrongful Detention, Active Assailants, and Duty of Care

"The world watched as this hurricane came through and there was not one weather-tracked pattern or warning that ever said Asheville, North Carolina is going to be in the damage zone." 

In a podcast appearance for Security Management, Global Guardian CEO Dale Buckner discussed the organization's response to the 2024 hurricane that unexpectedly swept through North Carolina, and how businesses can prepare for such surprising outcomes. 

Terror designation might prompt cartels to target Americans, expert says

“Is it counterproductive for the cartels to be doing this? It depends on how much pressure the U.S. places on them."

In an article for Border Report, Global Guardian's Director of Intelligence, Michael Ballard, provided analysis on how advances in drone technology may be helping Mexican cartels gain an advantage against U.S. border patrol agents. 

A Rising Threat: Using Drones to Conduct Corporate Espionage

"This level of state influence and the dual-use nature of the technology raise concerns, particularly when considering security vulnerabilities."

In Security Management, Global Guardian intelligence analyst Joe Chafetz was interviewed regarding the use of drones in an increasingly wider array of areas, including corporate espionage, as part of a larger analysis of global threats. 

Breaking Incident

At least one building collapsed in Bangkok, Thailand on 28 March after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Myanmar's Sagaing. Rescue operations were underway at the 30-story under-construction building site where more than 80 people remain trapped. Three people reportedly died in the collapse. In Myanmar, the earthquake has reportedly caused widespread damage, including the collapse of the air traffic control tower at Naypyidaw Airport. However, internet disruptions make verification difficult. At least six regions, including the capital Naypyidaw, are under a state of emergency. Global Guardian is currently conducting emergency response operations, including evacuations, wellness checks, and food and water delivery.

Five Years Later: Security in a Post-COVID World

“That’s what’s really changed in this post-COVID world. The definition of duty of care, going back to the word ‘care,’ now requires more physical or kinetic responses. No longer is it just pre-travel intel and an app alert and focused on medical.”

In an article for Security Management, Global Guardian CEO Dale Buckner discussed how duty of care and corporate security has evolved post-COVID-19. He highlights the shift from a primarily preventative approach to one that now demands a physical response to crises, emphasizing that true duty of care requires direct, on-the-ground support in an increasingly complex global landscape.

US Hammers Ally Facing Off China in Pacific With Tariffs

"Ultimately, China's intent in the wider Indo-Pacific is to displace the U.S. as the region's sheriff and to leverage hard power to dominate the trade and diplomatic relations it has with the region's countries."

In an article in Newsweek, Global Guardian Head of Research and Intelligence Zev Faintuch weighed in on the motivation behind the live-fire exercises conducted by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy vessels in the Tasman Sea, demonstrating China's ability to disrupt Australia-New Zealand connections.

In Global Guardian's monthly Risk Barometer, our Intelligence Team highlights current global hotspots with the potential to impact your business operations and travel. Read below for analysis on the threats we are closely monitoring this month and click here to subscribe for regular intelligence updates.

Putin Could Face His Biggest Threat After Ukraine War

""Much like their Afghan campaign, the massive number of [wounded in action] will be on full display daily in Russian life, a constant reminder of how Russia deceived its own people."

In Newsweek, Global Guardian Vice President of Client Risk Management Seth Krummrich spoke to the threat that Russian soldiers, returning from conflict with Ukraine, could pose to Vladimir Putin in 2025 and beyond.