A recent survey by Bitkom, a trade association for Germany’s IT sector, revealed that 80% of German businesses reported being targeted by data or IT theft, industrial espionage, or sabotage in the past year. The majority of these attacks (45%) were traced back to China, with Russia accounting for 39%. This marks an increase from the previous survey, where China was blamed for 42% of attacks.
The economic damage resulting from these acts of industrial espionage and cybercrime is estimated to be around €267 billion ($297 billion), a 29% increase from the previous year. Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst warned that companies must take measures to protect themselves against these threats, allocating more funds for digital security.
While Germany has a significant economic relationship with China, the survey highlights concerns about overreliance on any one country. The revelation of Chinese hackers spying on German auto giant Volkswagen has led to growing unease in industrial circles. Despite government warnings to “de-risk” their relationship with China, Germany’s investments continue to increase.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/chinese-cyberattacks-hit-nearly-half-of-german-firms-study/a-70070417