Data is the new gold, which is why it is so attractive to criminals. With more than 102,000 cybercrimes recorded in Switzerland last year (FSO, 2023), the danger is clear. In this article, we explain how to protect your data from being misused and what to do if something does happen.

Criminals use scams such as phishing and smishing to gain access to your personal data. They might then use your credit card details to pay for something, send phishing messages from your e-mail account or access your e-banking to transfer money from your bank account.

*Leaving the doors open to criminals*

In many cases, criminals attack an online platform and gain access to the data that way. Accounts with simple passwords can be cracked in an instant. You should also take care when using an unprotected public WLAN or if you have switched on Bluetooth. This can allow people with dishonest intentions to access any information that you share.

How to detect data theft

• You are suddenly unable to access your online account.
• You notice suspicious activity in an online account (e-banking, social media, e-mail inbox, etc.).
• Your contacts receive messages from you that you know nothing about.

If it is suspected that your Swisscom Login has fallen into the wrong hands, we will block your access and your Bluewin e-mail password as a precaution.

Tips for increasing data security

• Use the free Security Checker to check whether your e-mail address has been affected by a data breach.
• Choose strong passwords and use a different password for each account, for example by using a password manager.
• Activate two-factor authentication for online logins.
• Regularly update the software on all your devices.
• Do not share sensitive data on a public WLAN; when using e-banking for instance.
• Only switch on Bluetooth when you really need it.
• Add additional protection with our security products.

What to do if the worst happens

There’s no reason to be ashamed – it really can happen to anyone. If you suspect that your data has been stolen, act fast.

• Change your password or try to use “Reset password”.
• If you cannot change your password, then contact your online account provider. Inform them what has happened and get your account locked.
• Inform your contacts that fraudulent messages are being sent in your name and that they must not respond to them.
• Report what has happened or notify the police.