Lithuania sees 63% surge in cyber incidents amid regional tensions
In 2024, Lithuania recorded as many as 3,874 cyber incidents, representing an increase of 63% compared to the previous year. The main threats originate from Russia and Belarus.
Main information
- In 2024, 3,874 cyber incidents were registered in Lithuania.
- The main threats originate from Russia and Belarus.
- The increase in incidents is due to greater public awareness.
In Lithuania in 2024, 3,874 cyber incidents were recorded, marking a 63% increase compared to 2023. A report prepared by the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence indicates that the primary sources of threats are Russia and Belarus.
The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has significantly impacted cyber threats. Almost 60% of incidents involved attempts to extract sensitive information. The report highlighted that in the context of the war in Ukraine, narratives portraying NATO as an aggressive military bloc were disseminated.
In 2024, new narratives emerged, suggesting that Lithuania and Poland are preparing saboteurs for a coup in Belarus. Additionally, there has been an increase in reports about World War III or nuclear war in the information space.
Experts estimate that "this year, pressure from information will likely persist, and posts aimed at discrediting the Lithuanian Armed Forces and NATO will continue to appear online.
Intimidation and threats
According to the Strategic Communication Department of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, last year a new trend emerged — intimidation and threats in the information space. Experts predict that informational pressure will likely persist.
The increase in the number of incidents is not due to a higher threat level but rather from rising public awareness and understanding of the need to report such incidents. This demonstrates how important it is to educate society about cybersecurity.
