Cyber ​​attacks from China: A growing threat to the German economy

Cyber ​​attacks from China: A growing threat to the German economy

in 2023 China took on a disturbing role as the main origin of cyber attacks on the German economy. These findings come from a current study by the Digitalverband Bitkom, which has carried out a comprehensive survey of over 1,000 companies in various industries in Berlin. The data show that 45 percent of the companies surveyed information to be able to trace the attacks on their systems in China. In comparison, this proportion was 42 percent in the previous year.

This development is alarming because it reflects the global tendencies in the area of ​​cybercrime. In addition to the closer influence of China, 39 percent of the companies concerned stated that Russia was the origin of their attacks. In the previous year, this proportion was even higher, namely 46 percent. The report also shows that a third of the sought -after companies (36 percent) had no clear information about the attackers and that 20 percent of the attacks may even have been initiated from Germany.

the perpetrators in sight

The results also reveal who are the main suspects behind these cyber attacks. Companies suspect that crime organized behind 70 percent of attacks is hidden. This is a clear warning signal because criminal associations are more and more sophisticated and more targeted. In addition, foreign intelligence services were identified as possible perpetrators in 20 percent of cases - an increase of only 7 percent in the previous year. It is also assumed that 27 percent of the cyber attacks were motivated as revenge acts by former or current employees.

The study also illustrates the enormous extent of the threats that are exposed to the companies in Germany. A frightening number of 81 percent of companies reported that they have been victims of theft, industrial espionage and sabotage in the past twelve months. In addition, another 10 percent suspect that they have experienced such incidents in their company. The estimated financial damage caused by these attacks amounts to around 267 billion euros, which represents an increase of 29 percent compared to the previous year.

existential threat to companies

Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst commented concerns about the intensifying threat situation for the German economy. He emphasizes the need that companies have to strengthen their protective measures - both in the digital and physical area. This request for action becomes more urgent the more the effects of cyber attacks. According to the study, two thirds of the companies (65 percent) are now in their existence through cyber attacks seriously threatened, which is a dramatic increase compared to 52 percent in the previous year.

This situation is not just a business world gate; It is a serious problem that can have an impact on economic stability in Germany. Companies are required to take proactive measures to secure their data and systems in order to be able to counter the increasing risks. In this context, extensive training of employees and investments in the latest security technologies can be of crucial importance in order to defy the dangers from the cyber space.

growing cyber threats from the east

The developments are a clear signal that cybercrime is an ever increasing risk, especially with regard to geostrategic tensions. With the increasing influence of China on the international stage, the willingness to cyber attacks becomes more likely. Companies now have to rethink their strategies and develop security architectures that are as resistant as possible against threats from abroad.

The growing problem of cyber attacks on German companies also has international implications. The increase in cyber operations that aim at strategic sectors leads to increased cooperation between different countries in the area of ​​cyber defense. This is done against the background that many states recognize how important the safety of their digital infrastructure is. In this context, the EU initiatives to improve cyber security standards and demanded a common framework for cyber security in the member states. This shows how interdependent the security architectures of states have become in an increasingly networked world.

across national borders, companies are becoming increasingly important for ensuring that their systems are robust enough to be prepared for threats that work out of various actors. The increased guidelines and standards of the EU, such as the EU cybersecurity strategy, aim to increase the responsibility of the Member States and to form a common front against cybercrime. These measures are particularly relevant for German companies that have a high proportion of critical infrastructure and are export economies.

effects on the companies

The growing threat from cyber attacks not only has financial effects, but also influences the strategic orientation of companies. Many companies are increasingly investing in cybersecurity solutions and train their employees to promote security awareness. According to a Bitkom survey, 70 percent of the companies have strengthened security measures or implemented new technologies to better protect themselves.

In addition, the increase in cyber attacks has led to an increased discussion about liability and regulation. Companies are increasingly being responsible for ensuring that their systems are protected against attacks and that they are prepared for such incidents. This also has legal consequences, since violations of data security guidelines can lead to high penalties, such as that have been imposed in the EU since the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force.

A look at the statistics

The results of Bitkom's survey reveal alarming trends. In 2023, companies reported an increase in attacks, which underlines the need to develop robust security strategies. 54 percent of those surveyed stated that they had suffered at least one cyber attack in recent years. The most common types of attack included phishing (62 percent), malware (45 percent) and DDOS attacks (34 percent). These statistics not only illustrate the frequency of the attacks, but also the versatility of the methods used by attackers.

In addition, experts estimate that the financial effects of cyber attacks on the German economy extend beyond the costs for software, training courses and necessary security measures. The overall estimate of the economic losses amounts to more than 300 billion euros a year, which illustrates the urgency of the problem.

The continuous situation assessment and adaptation of the security strategies is essential because cyber threats are constantly changing. Therefore, the implementation of a holistic cybersecurity strategy is not only desirable, but also necessary to maintain the integrity of the companies and to secure its long-term competitiveness.