Abstract We have analyzed a catalog compiled by the USGS for the period 1977–2014 of approximately 33.1 seismic events (Mw ≥ 3.0) and 2.3 focal mechanisms (Mw ≥ 4.9) located in the Caribbean plate, with depths ranging between 0 km and 200 km (124.2 mi). Data allowed calculation of the spatial variations of the seismic regime (the b-values based on the Gutenberg–Richter power law, and the fractal dimension or D-parameter) and the seismotectonic deformation rates. We find a strong depth dependence of the b-values and the D-parameter as well as a depth interval (40–80 m [24.8–49.7 mi]) with large mean deformation rates (2.0±0.49 cm/yr) that has been associated with the subduction process along the Caribbean plate. Finally, we suggest that the southern border of the Caribbean plate starts near the central segment of the Nazca Cocos Spreading Center (3.5°N–83°W); trends eastward along the Sandra ridge, the Caldas Tear; and then follows the eastern foothills of the northern Andes.