United States most targeted by cyberattacks, Microsoft report finds

Microsoft’s Digital Defense Report 2026 reveals that the United States was the most targeted country for cyberattacks in the first half of 2026, accounting for 25.5% of all observed malicious activity. Israel and Ukraine followed, representing 7.6% and 4.8% of attacks, respectively.

The report indicates that cyberattacks are heavily influenced by geopolitical tensions. Russian attackers are primarily focused on Ukraine and NATO member states, while Chinese state-backed groups are concentrating on the United States, Taiwan, and strategic technology hubs in the Indo-Pacific.

Additionally, Microsoft noted a significant rise in ransomware threats within Europe, specifically highlighting a 276% year-over-year increase in recorded cases in Germany. The company also warned that artificial intelligence is enabling attackers to execute campaigns that are faster, cheaper, and more difficult to detect.