Safe online behavior - even on Black Friday

On average, Swiss internet users own around seven devices connected to the internet: from smartphones and watches to smart home gadgets such as light bulbs, sensors, fridges and cars. However, what makes everyday life easier also harbors risks. Because every device that is connected to the internet can also be a gateway for cyber criminals.

From August 7 to September 4, 2023, the market and social research institute gfs-zürich conducted 1239 population-representative interviews in all three parts of Switzerland on behalf of digitalswitzerland, Mobiliar, SATW, FHNW and SISA. The aim was to determine the attitudes of Swiss internet users towards cyber risks, the extent to which they are affected by attacks and the implementation of security measures. In addition, questions were asked about behavior and feelings of security when shopping online.

Gaps in knowledge and need for education: employers have a duty?

Around 8% of internet users have already been affected by a cyberattack in the last 3 years. Although around two thirds of respondents rate their own knowledge of protective measures as good, 61% of respondents would like to be better informed about the topic of internet security. This underlines the need for a broader understanding of cyber security in society so that citizens are better armed against cyber attacks.

The survey also highlights the influence of employers, who play an important role in how secure their employees behave as private individuals. Katja Dörlemann, President of the Swiss Internet Security Alliance, explains: "Employers can play a key role in promoting cyber security. Most people obtain information and training on cyber security in the workplace. There are platforms such as iBarry.ch that openly provide information on the topic and are primarily available to private individuals."

Password security: a crucial component

A key aspect of cyber security highlighted in the survey is password security. It was found that 31% of respondents almost always or always use the same password for different internet services, while 28% never use the same passwords for different services. This showed that younger age groups (18-39 years) in particular tend to use the same password almost all the time. The survey also revealed that 38% of respondents use a password manager, with younger people in particular (50%) using password managers more frequently. Prof. Dr. Marc K. Peter from the University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland emphasizes: "Using a password manager can help to make passwords secure and unique, which is crucial for protection against online threats."

Cybersecurity in online shopping: 11 percent of respondents are victims of fraud

The survey also sheds light on the online shopping behavior of Swiss internet users, which is particularly relevant in view of the upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers. 30% of respondents shop online at least once a week, 77% at least once a month. Men make online purchases more frequently than women. Although few (15%) worry about online shopping fraud, 11% have been scammed on online platforms in the last 5 years by paying for goods or services that were never delivered. This underlines the importance of secure online transactions and the need for measures to protect against fraud, especially in times of the online shopping boom. Simon Seebeck, Head of the Cyber Risk Competence Center at Mobiliar: "Cyber security must not be neglected. It is not without reason that cyber criminals are said to be rather 'convenient' and seek the path of least resistance - this applies not only to inadequately protected companies, but unfortunately also to private individuals. The risk of becoming a victim of an attack can be reduced. With training, for example."

Tips for safe Internet use:

1. Check links in e-mails whose sender you do not know before you click on them.
2. Do not share personal or sensitive information with unknown persons.
3. Store on shopping sites that you know or where you can verify the company.
4. Create an automated/regular backup of your data.
5. Automatically/regularly update the software on your cell phone, tablet and laptop/computer.
6. Use strong passwords - use a password manager.
7. Where offered, activate two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA/MFA).
8. Only use public Wi-Fi if necessary and with a VPN.
9. Make sure you obtain your information from trustworthy sources.
10. Report cases of fraud to the police.

The survey results must be viewed in the context of the growing threats from cyberspace. Particular caution is required during the shopping season, as some offers are too good to be true. It is therefore extremely important to increase security awareness, intensify training measures and further strengthen cyber security in Switzerland.

Source: www.digitalswitzerland.com