Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu presented statistics on cyber attacks against Albania’s digital infrastructure at the National Cyber Security Conference. She reported that in the first nine months of 2024 the country recorded approximately 32 million attempted cyber attacks, averaging 81 attempts per minute. Koçiu highlighted that roughly half of these attempts targeted critical infrastructure. “If one of these attacks had succeeded, citizens could have lost access to public services, critical systems could have been damaged, and personal data of thousands could have been compromised,” she said. “Cybersecurity is not just a matter of computers, servers, or technology; it is a matter of state functioning, citizen safety, and trust.” She also referenced the 2022 cyber attack on Albania, which authorities blamed on Iran. “The 2022 attack showed that a country can be severely impacted without a physical invasion. A cyber attack can achieve the same effect as a physical one, disrupting state functions and eroding public confidence,” Koçiu said. She added that the incident prompted faster action, increased investment, and a prioritization of cyber security as a national security issue. “Today we have a stronger protection system and better‑prepared institutions.” Regarding incidents, Koçiu noted that 51 cyber incidents were recorded last year, and 25 have been reported from January to September 2024. She emphasized the need for continued vigilance and investment in cyber defenses.