With this study, Bitkom has been analysing the state of the German economy in terms of corporate protection every year since 2015. With this study, Bitkom has developed an instrument that provides comprehensive insights into cyber attacks on the German economy. Which companies are affected by espionage, sabotage and data theft? Who are the suspected perpetrators? And how much financial damage has been caused to the German economy?
The number of digital attacks on German companies will continue to rise in 2024. 74% of companies have been affected by data theft. The total damage caused by cybercrime now amounts to 178.6 billion euros, with ransomware and phishing being the most common forms of attack. However, analogue attacks are also on the rise, particularly the theft of physical documents and the interception of conversations. Organisations are investing more in IT security, which now accounts for 17% of their IT budget, and increasingly see IT security as part of their digital sovereignty. Many recognise the risks in their supply chains, but often lack a contingency plan.
