Taiwan Under Digital Siege: Cyberattacks Surge in 2025
A Surge in Cyber Threats
Taiwan experienced a 6% increase in cyberattacks in 2025, with an average of 2.63 million attacks daily. The island's National Security Bureau revealed that these attacks were part of a broader strategy by China to destabilize Taiwan's infrastructure.
Strategic Timing of Attacks
The attacks were not random. They often coincided with military drills and political events. For instance, during 40 joint combat readiness patrols, cyberattacks spiked on 23 occasions. This synchronization suggests a deliberate effort to create chaos and disrupt daily life.
Targeting Critical Sectors
Critical sectors like energy, emergency services, and hospitals saw the most significant increases in attacks. The report highlights that these attacks are not just about stealing data. They aim to paralyze government functions and social services. This is a clear example of hybrid warfare, combining cyberattacks with military and political pressure.
Political Timing of Attacks
China's cyber army also targeted Taiwan during key political moments. For example, attacks surged when President Lai Ching-te gave his first annual speech and when Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim addressed lawmakers in Europe. These timed attacks show China's strategic use of cyber warfare to exert pressure on Taiwan.
Techniques Used
The report revealed that China's attacks included:
- DDoS attacks to disrupt daily life
- Man-in-the-middle attacks to steal information
- Targeting science parks crucial for Taiwan's semiconductor industry
Broader Strategy
Taiwan's National Security Bureau emphasized that these attacks are part of a broader strategy to compromise Taiwan's infrastructure comprehensively. The goal is clear: to disrupt and paralyze the island's government and social functions. This ongoing digital siege underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure.
