Vancouver, BC – written February 14, 2025 – The latest findings from the German digital association Bitkom have revealed deep-seated concerns among the German population regarding cybersecurity threats. Released during the Munich Cyber Security Conference (MCSC) on February 13, 2025, the report highlights a widespread fear of cybercrime and even cyber warfare, as well as a lack of confidence in the country’s preparedness to counter such threats.
According to the study, 70% of Germans consider cybercrime a major threat to the nation, with an equal percentage believing that Germany is ill-prepared to handle cyberattacks. Furthermore, 61% of respondents fear the possibility of cyber warfare, and 64% think Germany is inadequately equipped to defend itself in such a scenario. Despite the government’s National Security Strategy outlining 30 cybersecurity initiatives, only two have been fully implemented, raising concerns about the nation’s digital resilience.
Key Cybersecurity Threats and Perceived Adversaries
The study underscores that many Germans view foreign intelligence services and organized crime as the most significant cybersecurity risks. A staggering 98% of respondents perceive Russia as the primary cyber threat, followed by China at 84%. Interestingly, 32% also see the United States as a potential cybersecurity risk, ranking it ahead of Iran (29%) and Belarus (17%).
Bitkom President Dr. Ralf Wintergerst emphasized the evolving nature of cyber threats, noting that the distinction between cybercrime, state-sponsored attacks, and hybrid warfare is increasingly blurred. He stressed the need for Germany to bolster its digital security, not only within government institutions but also in critical infrastructure and private enterprises.
Lack of Confidence in Government Readiness
The report indicates a stark lack of confidence in public institutions’ ability to counter cyber threats. Only 23% of Germans believe that government agencies, including the police and military, are well-prepared for cyberattacks. In contrast, 70% believe that future wars will involve significant digital components, and 66% argue that cyberattacks should be treated as seriously as traditional military assaults.
One major area of concern is the vulnerability of undersea communication cables, essential for global internet connectivity. Recent incidents of sabotage have heightened public fears, with 63% of Germans worried about the ease with which these cables can be targeted. A vast majority (80%) advocate for the expansion of undersea cables to reduce dependency on a few key routes, while 69% support treating attacks on these infrastructures as acts of war.
Urgent Need for Cybersecurity Action
Given these alarming statistics, calls for more decisive action are growing. The study reveals strong public support for cybersecurity investments, with 75% advocating for a national digital emergency response system and 73% calling for greater investment in securing critical infrastructure. Additionally, 71% believe Germany must develop offensive cyber capabilities to deter potential attacks.
Despite the urgency, progress on cybersecurity measures remains sluggish. Out of the 30 initiatives outlined in the National Security Strategy, only two have been completed, 19 are in progress, and nine have yet to begin. Notably, plans to strengthen the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) have stalled due to a lack of political consensus and funding shortages.
Dr. Wintergerst has urged the government to prioritize cybersecurity in its defense and security agenda. “Germany faces daily cyber threats, and without decisive action, we risk falling further behind in the digital arms race,” he warned. “The next government must not only set ambitious goals but also ensure their timely implementation.”
As cyber threats continue to evolve, Germany finds itself at a crossroads—either it strengthens its digital defenses or risks exposing itself to increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks. With public concern at an all-time high, there is growing pressure on policymakers to turn strategies into tangible action before it is too late.
More information available here in German language only: Die Bitkom-Auswertung der Nationalen Sicherheitsstrategie ist online verfügbar unter: www.bitkom.org/Monitor-Nationale-Sicherheitsstrategie
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