Prague, Czech Republic – The Czech Republic is grappling with a surge in cyber attacks, particularly from pro-Russian hacker groups, which have targeted media outlets, state institutions, and the banking sector. Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, aimed at overwhelming servers and causing disruptions, have become increasingly common. Additionally, businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises, have faced the threat of ransomware attacks, where data is encrypted and held hostage for payment.

Despite the escalating cyber threats, the country’s response has been sluggish. The National Cyber Security Centre has reported a doubling of cybercrime incidents, from 9,036 in 2021 to 18,554 in the previous year. This surge in attacks highlights the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard critical infrastructure and protect against data breaches.

Several challenges have hindered the fight against cybercrime in the Czech Republic. Insufficient resources allocated to cybersecurity, particularly within government institutions, have hampered efforts. Additionally, there is a pressing need for increased collaboration between cybersecurity experts and the general public. To address these challenges, the National Cyber Security Centre advocates for the development of accessible and comprehensive cybersecurity education programs.

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation as remote work has become the norm for many organizations. This shift has further exposed vulnerabilities, making ransomware attacks an ongoing concern even in the post-pandemic era, according to the National Cyber Security Centre.

To confront the escalating threat, the Czech Republic has taken a significant step by establishing the National Centre for Combating Terrorism, Extremism, and Cybercrime. This specialized police unit will concentrate on investigating and preventing cyber attacks while promoting cybersecurity education and awareness across the country. The establishment of this dedicated unit underscores the seriousness with which the Czech government regards the growing cyber threats and their determination to address them effectively.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for nations to remain vigilant and proactive in countering cyber threats. The establishment of the National Centre for Combating Terrorism, Extremism, and Cybercrime in the Czech Republic is a crucial step toward bolstering cybersecurity efforts and safeguarding critical sectors from the increasing risks posed by cybercriminals.

Article by Prague Forum