Saxony's government wants to ensure greater cyber security

Saxony wants to arm itself better against cyber attacks. This is the aim of a cyber security strategy adopted by the cabinet in Dresden. "We want to make the administration secure, help companies to take precautions and deal with incidents and make citizens more aware of the dangers," said Daniela Dylakiewicz, Head of Office at the State Chancellery and Commissioner for Information Technology.

"The topic is more topical than ever," emphasized the head of office. There is a permanent threat situation. "Any one of us can become a victim of cyber attacks and perhaps already has." It is a constant race, and the attackers are also constantly evolving. However, we are not helpless in the face of danger, Dylakiewicz formulated the message.

Companies report cyber damage of 179 billion euros

The strategy bundles all activities of authorities to protect against threats from cyberspace for the first time, it said. It comprises nine fields of action. In addition to long-term goals, it also includes concrete measures that the government wants to be measured against. For example, state institutions are to provide or support training for 5,000 citizens every year. The same is planned for at least 10,000 government employees. Emergency drills are to be held every year. Local authorities are to be involved.

According to Jörg Steinig, the state's information security officer, cybercrime caused damage of 179 billion euros to German companies in 2024. Companies now cite cyber risks as the biggest business risk. Saxony has set up its own protective shield in the Saxon administrative network. In the economy, it mainly affects small and medium-sized companies.