Cybercrime in focus: Ulm companies fight against digital threats

Cybercrime in focus: Ulm companies fight against digital threats

Cyber attacks have developed into one of the greatest threats to companies and society in recent years. A study by the Bitkom industry association shows that in 2023 72 percent of all German companies were affected by cybercrime. The number of companies that state that these attacks endanger their economic existence is particularly alarming. The total damage amounts to an impressive 206 billion euros, a large part, around 148 billion euros, is due to cyber attacks. Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst described these developments as the currently largest threat to business, society and state.

The challenges of those affected

Companies in the area of responsibility of the Ulm police headquarters, which also includes the districts of Alb-Donau, Biberach, Göppingen and Heidenheim, are also not immune to such attacks. Ralf Möschen, head of crime inspection 5, explains that at least one larger ransomware attack is reported per month. These attacks concern both small craft businesses and large companies. Despite the widespread danger, many companies hesitate to alert the police after a cyber attack, for fear of a possible loss of image or believe that the police do not have the necessary know-how in order to work out such cases efficiently.

Causes and Empire

Cybercrime ranges from phishing emails, in which users are tempted to do so, harmful links to clicking, to targeted sabotage files from state actors. Möschen speaks of open security gaps that are used by perpetrators, as well as "zero-day exploits", i.e. vulnerabilities for which no security updates exist. Ransomware attacks are very lucrative for the perpetrators who usually demand ransoms in the amount of three percent of annual sales, often in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin.

This is how companies and private individuals protect themselves

The question of how companies and private individuals can effectively protect themselves in this context. Ralf Möschen and his colleagues from the crime inspection recommend increased vigilance. It is particularly important to sharpen personal mistrust, especially for emails that ask about sensitive information. Secure passwords and two-factor authentications represent first protection. However, it is also crucial that companies implement a comprehensive security concept.

Difficulties in the perpetrator determination

If an attack occurs, the police investigation is complex. Investigators have to find out how the attackers got into the company network, how long they were active and whether data was stolen. But the way to the perpetrator is often difficult because the crime is well organized and the perpetrators communicate in the Darknet. Möschen emphasizes how internationally networked and flexible the cybercriminals are and that the police are often dependent on international legal aid. Despite these challenges, international cooperation is getting better, not least due to the extended perception of the dangers of cybercrime.

FAZIT: Cybercrime-A serious risk for everyone

Finally, it can be seen that cyber attacks are not only a technical problem, but also have deeper social and economic effects. Many companies are not aware of the growing danger that such attacks represent. Rather, it is a question of the 'when' an attack, not 'whether'. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures in order to prepare for future cyber threats.