Overview

The Covid crises led to a major increase in on-line activities in the Czech Republic ranging from work-from-home arrangements to eCommerce purchases. The number of cyber threats targeting users increased as a result. The National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NÚKIB) handled 99 cyber security incidents in 2020. This number rose to 157 incidents in 2021. There was also an increase in incidents reported to NUKIB by non-state regulated organizations – 476 incidents. The incidents were also more severe than in previous years. Spam, phishing, and scanning are the most common types of cyber-attacks. The number of ransomware and DDoS attacks, as well as spear fishing also saw significant increases.

Government offices are the most vulnerable to cyber-attacks, followed by healthcare. With the increasing adoption of eHealth initiatives, the need for technologies to protect patient data is essential. Industrial and energy installations were targeted in 2021 more than any other sectors. Attacks on educational institutions are also becoming more common. Alternatively, the Czech financial sector was relatively insulated from attacks due to higher budgets for cybersecurity technology.

Based on a NUKIB report, there was a sharp increase in cyber-crime and internet offences to 9,518 cases in 2021. NUKIB specifically names the Russian Federation and The People´s Republic of China as the most critical state-sponsored cyber threat actors in terms of available human, financial and time resources. State actors´ threats are followed by individuals and organizations active in criminal activities.

Sources:  National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NUKIB) report 2021

Opportunities

The Czech Republic’s greatest challenges include a shortage of cyber security experts, low budgets on cyber security and old IT equipment, particularly in the public sector. However, with the increase and severity of attacks, coupled with greater awareness, cybersecurity budgets are growing. The European Union has also identified cybersecurity as one of its top priorities and set aside significant financing to support investments in this area. Further investments are expected with the introduction of 5G telecom networks. The total market of expenditures needed to protect critical infrastructure is estimated between $120 –160 million.

Private sector investments are led by large companies which are often multinationals or IT companies but also those active in banking, energy, or critical infrastructure. Further education and awareness of cybersecurity challenges are needed. U.S. technology is highly regarded, and strong opportunities exist for U.S. companies offering innovative and sophisticated products, as well as data and value-added services.  

Leading Sub-Sectors

• Security Software - Anti-virus software, Content management software
• Security Information and Event Management systems
• Security Services
• Security Appliances – Unified Threat Management, firewall/VPN appliances, biometric tech

Resources

National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NCISA/NUKIB) at https://www.nukib.cz/en/

Public tenders are published in a tender database which can be accessed through the EU’s Tenders Electronic Daily (TED) -  https://ted.europa.eu/TED/main/HomePage.do
 

Trade Events

Although cyber security focused conferences are organized in the Czech Republic, the country does not host any international trade fair focused on cyber security. Czechs tend to travel to important events abroad.

Infosecurity Europe London

U.S. Commercial Service Contact: Veronika.novakova@trade.gov