New study "Cybersecurity in Numbers" from G DATA CyberDefense shows that AI is intensifying the threat landscape while also strengthening defenses
Three-quarters of IT security and management decision-makers say IT security is being compromised by a shortage of skilled staff. At the same time, the growing use of artificial intelligence is intensifying the threat landscape. But AI is not only part of the problem — it is also playing an increasingly important role in defending against attacks. These are among the findings of the sixth edition of "Cybersecurity in Numbers," the representative study by G DATA CyberDefense, brand eins, and Statista, based on 5,000 respondents. The current issue is available now.
A shortage of skilled personnel is increasingly becoming a concrete security risk for companies. 76 percent of the IT security and management decision-makers surveyed say that the staff shortage is having a negative impact on their organization's IT security. 44 percent even describe the impact as strong to very strong. This is according to the new edition of "Cybersecurity in Numbers." Together with brand eins and Statista, G DATA CyberDefense has now produced a representative snapshot of IT security in Germany for the sixth time.
Specifically, companies lack the staff needed to install security-relevant updates promptly and to assess alerts from security solutions. At the same time, pressure is mounting from a threat landscape in which artificial intelligence is playing an ever-greater role. This makes one thing clear: IT security has long since stopped being purely a question of the right technology. Companies also need enough qualified people who can put these technologies to effective use.
"Artificial intelligence is changing the threat landscape on both sides: cybercriminals can carry out attacks faster and more efficiently. At the same time, AI helps detect attacks earlier and respond to them more quickly. The key question, therefore, is not whether we use AI in cyber defense, but how responsibly and effectively we harness its capabilities. Companies should seize this opportunity now to strengthen their defenses for the long term," says Andreas Lüning, co-founder and executive board member of G DATA CyberDefense.
AI intensifies attacks — and helps defend against themThe persistently high threat level is adding further pressure: for almost half of respondents (46 percent), organized cybercriminals seeking profit through targeted attacks pose the greatest danger. Artificial intelligence is increasing the speed and efficiency of attacks — for example, when exploiting security vulnerabilities. At the same time, AI has long since become an important part of cyber defense: 44 percent of respondents see particular value in it for the early detection of attacks. For one in three, using AI brings advantages in the automated analysis of large volumes of data and in automated responses to security incidents.
Sixth edition of the IT security reference guide"Cybersecurity in Numbers" from G DATA CyberDefense, brand eins, and Statista is now appearing for the sixth time. The magazine has firmly established itself as a compendium on IT security. More than 5,000 people in Germany shared insights into their digital everyday lives, their sense of security, and their experiences with IT security. Alongside the representative, comprehensive employee survey, the magazine covers numerous aspects of IT security. Once again this year, a special focus is placed on public administration. Features and interviews with Federal Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger, on digital sovereignty, and on the skills shortage round out the current issue.
"The study shows that cybersecurity needs more than good technology. It thrives on exchange, on shared learning, and on people who take responsibility. Cybersecurity doesn't start in the server room — it starts wherever decisions are made," says Susanne Risch, editor-in-chief of brand eins Corporate Services.
IT security as an economic factorThe importance of cybersecurity is also growing worldwide, as shown by the following findings:
- Global revenue from security services has more than doubled over the past ten years (2016: €11.5 billion; 2026: €25.4 billion).
- By 2030, the cost of cybercrime is estimated to reach €16.9 trillion — a 2,240 percent increase compared to 2018.
- 68 percent of all cyberattacks are carried out via email containing malware.
- In 2025, the clearance rate for recorded cybercrime cases in Germany stood at 31 percent.
Download "Cybersecurity in Numbers""Cybersecurity in Numbers" is now in its sixth edition and stands out for its high information density and particular methodological depth. As part of a representative online study, more than 5,000 employees in Germany were surveyed about cybersecurity in both their professional and private lives. Statista's experts closely accompanied the survey and, thanks to a sample size far exceeding the industry standard, present robust and valid market research findings in the "Cybersecurity in Numbers" magazine. The reference guide also offers figures, data, and facts drawn from more than 300 statistics covering all aspects of IT security.
Interested readers can download "Cybersecurity in Numbers." (only in German available)