A new survey from the NCTV in the Netherlands shows a sharp rise in public concern over cyber threats and extremism. These issues, along with tensions between population groups and disruptions to vital processes, are top worries for Dutch citizens.
Concerns about extremism have notably increased by 10 percentage points since spring 2025. Cyber threats, inter-group tensions, extremism, and organized crime are now considered the most likely threats to national security.
The “Risk and Crisis Barometer” (RCB) report, a public survey by the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security, highlights these growing anxieties. 55% worry about cyber threats, 52% about tensions, and 50% about vital process disruptions.
The perceived likelihood of these events has also increased, with 83% seeing cyber threats as highly probable, 77% for inter-group tensions, and 75% for both extremism and organized crime.
Despite these rising concerns, only 35% of residents have taken steps to prepare for risks and threats, up from 29% in spring 2025. This includes stocking emergency supplies and being alert to digital dangers.
However, nearly six out of ten Dutch citizens (59%) still haven’t taken action, primarily due to feeling they can’t do anything or not seeing the necessity. A public campaign, “Think Ahead,” has launched to encourage preparedness.
This campaign, along with an information booklet titled “Prepare for an emergency,” aims to activate citizens and provide guidance on how to prepare for disruptions like power, water, or internet outages.
The RCB survey is conducted twice yearly by Ipsos I&O for the NCTV. The latest fall 2025 measurement involved 5,873 Dutch residents aged 18 and older, offering insights for crisis communication and planning.
The results will inform national security strategies, with the next survey scheduled for spring 2026 to track evolving public perceptions of threats.
The intensifying public concern over cyber threats finds concrete validation in the constant evolution of malware campaigns, which continuously seek new vectors to compromise digital security.
For instance, recent reports detail how hackers are hijacking Blender 3D assets to covertly deploy StealC V2 data-stealing malware, demonstrating sophisticated methods to bypass traditional defenses.
Such evolving threats underscore the importance of heightened digital vigilance and comprehensive preparedness, aligning with efforts to inform citizens about the diverse dangers in the cyber domain. Read more on this Blender malware campaign.