Security summit in Kolbermoor: Tips against the threat of cybercrime!

Security summit in Kolbermoor: Tips against the threat of cybercrime!

What's going on in the area of ​​IT security? At the second IHK business reception in Kolbermoor, which attracted numerous entrepreneurs, politicians and administrative representatives, the focus was clearly on the challenges of the digital world. IT security expert Tobias Schrödel focused his presentation on the threats posed by hackers, online fraudsters and the shadowy world of the Darknet. The audience was introduced to an exciting discussion about how companies, especially small and medium-sized companies, can arm themselves against these dangers. This topic is particularly topical because the IT security situation in Germany is classified as worrying by the BSI.

Gabi Dreo Rodosek from the University of the Bundeswehr in Munich explained the need for companies to rethink their approach. Peter Danil from the BSI complemented this perspective with the recommendation to systematically prepare for cyber attacks. There shouldn't be a universal solution that fits everyone, but a sensible first step is the BSI's cyber risk check to specifically improve IT security. The current cyber landscape requires attentive and informed companies because the attack surfaces are constantly growing due to digitalization.

Cybersecurity trends and challenges

According to the Federal Criminal Police Office's management report, cybercrime in Germany remained at a high level. In 2024, 131,391 cybercrime cases were recorded, representing a slight decrease of 2.2 percent compared to the previous year. However, statistics show an increase in external cyberattacks. Hacker attacks from Russia and against Israel in particular are increasing. The damage caused by cyber attacks amounted to a whopping 178.6 billion euros in 2024, 30 billion euros more than in the previous year.

Also important are ransomware attacks, which, according to Dobrindt, are the most common cyberattacks. These are primarily aimed at small and medium-sized companies and municipalities. Most recently, 950 companies experienced ransomware attacks. Nevertheless, there have been successes in the fight against cybercrime, including by shutting down online marketplaces for illegal services.

Resilience and prevention

What can companies do to become more resilient? The BSI report states that manufacturers should develop more secure products and operators must implement cybersecurity principles. Consumers are also in demand by building their cybersecurity skills. The better prepared all actors are, the more robust the entire system will be against attacks.

In summary, it can be said that the discussions at the business reception in Kolbermoor provided important impetus for improving IT security. The need to talk about the opportunities and risks of digitalization is only underscored by increasing cyberattacks and hybrid warfare. It is a joint endeavor to create security on the Internet. So let’s stay vigilant and well prepared.