31.10.2025 - The internet is very useful, whether for banking transactions, shopping or keeping in touch with family and friends, but it does expose you to certain dangers. One of the biggest is ‘phishing’. Fraudsters try to persuade you to reveal personal data like passwords or account information using fake emails, text messages or messages. Older people are a particular target for these scams. In order to raise awareness among all users in a playful way, BACS has developed a word search puzzle on the topic of phishing.
According to Pro Senectute’s study «Digital Seniors 2025», 97% of people aged between 65 and 74 are connected to the Internet. Senior citizens are unfortunately also an attractive target for social engineering for various reasons. They grew up in a time when personal interactions were based on trust. Therefore, they are more inclined to believe someone who claims to be an authority figure or someone who says they are in need than perhaps a younger person would. This can make senior citizens a target for scams involving financial help or fake emergencies. In addition, senior citizens did not grow up with today's technology. This can mean they lack the experience to recognise digital scams, phishing emails or fraudulent websites. Furthermore, cybercriminals are highly adaptable and are making their phishing attacks more sophisticated.
Phishing messages often look deceptively genuine: an email or text message that appears to be from your bank, the post office or an online shop. These messages almost always ask you to click on a link in order, for example, to ‘log in’ or ‘update’ your data. In reality, however, the links lead to fake websites used to steal your data.
Word search puzzle
In order to raise awareness among all users in a playful way, NCSC has developed a word search puzzle on the topic of phishing.
Quiz
Moreover, the NCSC has collaborated with the association Netpathie to develop a quiz that allows you to practise recognising such fraudulent emails.
Brownbag lunch featuring Ivano Somaini
The NCSC also provided an in-depth insight into the methods and tricks used by attackers during a brownbag lunch featuring campaign ambassador Ivano Somaini, which took place on 9 October 2025.
How to protect yourself from phishing:
- Be alert when you receive unexpected messages.
- Do not open any attachments from unknown sources.
- Delete emails with suspicious content immediately.
- Do not allow yourself to be intimidated or put under pressure.
- Be very careful about sharing personal information on social media.
- Do not enter passwords or credit card details on pages that you have opened via a link in an email or text message.
Have you discovered a phishing page or received a phishing email?
Report it at antiphishing.ch or using the NCSC reporting form.
Do you want to check if your data are already in the wrong hands?
Then check if your email address has been compromised at Have I Been Pwned, and if you have any doubts at all, change your password.
Further information:
Phishing, Vishing, Smishing (admin.ch)
Protect your accounts / passwords
NCSC – National Cyber Security Centre Switzerland – YouTube
Last modification 31.10.2025
