The Philippines is among the countries most likely to be attacked by Chinese hackers by 2025, according to a new report from Microsoft. Sectors such as IT, government, and education are affected, making them the focus of cyber espionage across Southeast Asia.
In the Digital Defense Report 2025, the Philippines ranks sixth among the countries most frequently targeted by Chinese cyber groups. The United States leads, followed by Thailand, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan.
According to the report, the hackers aimed to obtain information and data from internet providers, telecommunications companies, government agencies, and military defense. In 2024, they also used cyber attacks to collect information and influence elections in various countries.
The report also showed that 32% increase in identity-based attacks worldwide, and the Philippines is among the countries hit by Lumma Stealer, a type of malware used to steal data. Many hospitals, local governments, and schools remain vulnerable due to under-budget and outdated systems.
According to Peter Maquera, CEO of Microsoft Philippines, it is time to make cybersecurity a national priority. He advised companies to use multi-factor authentication to protect their systems against hackers.
