Community Association Finds Municipalities Poorly Equipped Against Cyberattacks
Local governments in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) are struggling to defend against cyber threats, according to a senior official. Christoph Landscheidt, mayor of Kamp-Lintfort and president of NRW’s Association of Towns and Municipalities, has raised alarms over outdated systems and growing digital risks.
Landscheidt described the current situation as an arms race, where attackers’ technology outpaces municipal defences. He warned that many administrations still rely on obsolete software, including Windows XP, leaving them exposed. Even recent upgrades, like those in Bergisch Gladbach, have not fully closed the gap.
The mayor also highlighted the risk of sabotage by foreign actors, pointing to drones as a potential threat to infrastructure. He cited a recent cyber incident in Westphalia as proof of the danger. Remote work has further increased vulnerabilities, making local governments more appealing targets. While Bergisch Gladbach improved its defences in 2025 with digitalisation and antivirus updates, the wider problem remains. Cyber threats continue to evolve faster than many municipalities can respond, leaving critical systems at risk.
The warnings come as NRW’s local authorities face persistent digital weaknesses. Outdated technology and rapid advancements in cyberattacks create an ongoing challenge. Without stronger protections, municipalities remain vulnerable to disruptions and sabotage.
