Cybercrime Law in Germany
Germany addresses computer crime through dedicated sections of its Criminal Code (Strafgesetzbuch, StGB), alongside EU-derived data-protection law.
Key laws
- StGB § 202a — data espionage (unlawfully obtaining protected data).
- StGB § 202b — phishing / interception of data.
- StGB § 202c — preparatory acts (the “hacker tools” provision).
- StGB § 303a — data alteration; § 303b — computer sabotage.
- Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG) together with the EU GDPR — data protection and breach obligations.
Enforcement
The Bundeskriminalamt (BKA) and state police forces investigate cybercrime; Germany is a party to the Budapest Convention.
Plain-language overview, not legal advice. Statutes change — verify the current text and seek qualified advice for any specific matter.