Cyberattacks

We rely on digital technologies in almost every part of daily life – at home, at work and across public services. While this level of connectivity brings many advantages, it also makes us more vulnerable. Cyberattacks can affect private individuals, companies, and public authorities, and they often aim to steal confidential data, disrupt systems, or extort money. To do this, attackers use phishing emails, ransomware and other malicious software (malware), as well as vulnerabilities in software and devices.

The consequences of a cyberattack can be serious, ranging from hacked social media accounts and stolen credit card details to identity theft, locked computers and disruptions to critical infrastructure such as the energy supply, transport and healthcare. Cyberattacks can affect anyone, regardless of the device or operating system they use. In order to protect themselves, individuals and organisations should implement key measures such as keeping software up to date, making regular backups, and using strong authentication methods like two-factor authentication (2FA) or passkeys.

• Emails with malware in the name of debt collection agencies and health insurance companies
• Fake letters on behalf of MeteoSwiss – Instead of a ‘Severe Weather Warning App’, malware is downloaded
• Cybercriminals spread malware for macOS in emails purportedly from AGOV

1. Never share personal data, such as passwords or credit card details, with anyone, even if they contact you via text message, email or phone call, or if you are asked to do so on an unfamiliar website.
2. Keep all installed programs and devices up to date, installing available updates as soon as possible. If they are available, enable automatic updates.
3. Whenever a service offers it, enable strong authentication, such as two-factor authentication or passkeys.
4. Back up your data and store a copy in a separate location – for example on an external hard drive, another device, or in the cloud.
5. Install antivirus software and a firewall, and keep both up to date at all times.
6. Be suspicious of any text messages, emails or phone calls that threaten consequences such as loss of money, legal action or blocked accounts or cards.
7. Report cyberincidents to the NCSC at https://www.report.ncsc.admin.ch/en/.
8. For phishing emails and websites, please use the specialised website https://antiphishing.ch/en/ or email reports@antiphishing.ch.
9. If you have been the victim of a crime, we recommend reporting it to the police.

1. Inform yourself via radio and television and follow the instructions given by the authorities and emergency organisations.
2. Call the emergency services only in an emergency.
3. Use the telephone and other important means of communication only for important and urgent requirements (danger of network overload).
4. Use cars and other means of transport only for important and urgent requirements (danger of traffic overload).
5. Act particularly careful in traffic (danger due to breakdown of traffic lights, barriers etc.).
6. Inform and support neighbours and people needing assistance in your vicinity.

• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC)