Cybercrime Remains a Serious Challenge for German Businesses Amid Digital Transformation

As Germany's business sector advances further into digitalization in early 2026, cybersecurity continues to pose a significant risk to companies, especially medium and large enterprises. Despite progress in adopting new technologies and AI to boost productivity, many firms face persistent cyber threats largely linked to inadequate security culture and employee awareness.

According to a recent KPMG study titled 'e-Crime: Computerkriminalität in der deutschen Wirtschaft 2024,' 66% of companies reported that cybercrime occurrences stem from a lack of security understanding among employees. To combat this, 74% of firms have implemented training programs focusing on raising employee awareness of cyber risks. Technology remains a critical tool in preventing cyber incidents, yet human factors are viewed as a major vulnerability.

Complementing these insights, a DIHK survey covering nearly 5,000 enterprises reveals that although companies feel generally well-prepared for digitalization—with a digitalization index of 2.8 and 60% having access to gigabit internet—cybersecurity challenges endure. Particularly in sectors like transport and logistics, the threat level remains elevated. While larger companies have enhanced their cybersecurity strategies, smaller firms continue to grapple with significant risks.

The survey highlights another barrier to digital progress: slow and cumbersome public administration processes, which receive poor ratings from businesses and hamper faster digital transformation. Companies urge political actors to reduce bureaucracy, establish clearer legal frameworks, and promote digital sovereignty through open standards and better digital education.

In conclusion, while German companies are making strides in digital technologies and AI adoption, their cybersecurity readiness depends heavily on cultivating a robust security culture among employees and receiving supportive regulatory frameworks. Continued investment in both technology and comprehensive employee training is vital to mitigating cybercrime threats in 2026 and beyond.