“No excuses – do it!”
12 June, 2025 | Current General
Switzerland is raising awareness of digital risks: With the new “No excuses – do it!” campaign, the federal government, the insurance industry and partner organizations want to motivate SMEs and private individuals to finally make cyber security a priority – in a practical, concrete way and without pointing fingers.
Phishing, ransomware or data theft: many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) underestimate the risk of a cyberattack or postpone necessary protective measures. However, recent incidents show that cyber criminals specifically exploit vulnerabilities in companies. The consequences are often dramatic and range from business interruption and reputational damage to a threat to the company’s existence.
The new campaign by the Federal Office for Cybersecurity (BACS) starts right here. Together with the Swiss Insurance Association (SIA), the police, SBB, Swiss Post and other partners, the awareness-raising initiative was launched throughout Switzerland on April 24, 2025.
Fewer excuses, more protection
Under the motto “No excuses – do it!”, the campaign is aimed at anyone who classifies cyber security as tedious, complicated or “not urgent”. It shows how easy it is to make excuses and how big the risks are if you don’t act. The central platform s-u-p-e-r.ch provides concrete instructions on how SMEs and private individuals can improve their digital security using simple means. These include
- Checklists for data backup
- Recognition of phishing emails
- Tips for employee training
- Recommendations for cyber insurance
Cyber insurance: a protective shield for emergencies
Even with careful prevention, a residual risk remains. Cyber insurance can help to cushion this risk not only financially, but also organizationally. Many policies include:
- Preventive advice and safety standards
- Immediate help in an emergency, in the event of a hacker attack
- Crisis management, forensic analysis and IT recovery
- Cover for loss of earnings and liability claims
Some insurers also offer specialized teams to provide support in the event of blackmail or to communicate with affected customers and authorities. This support is particularly crucial for SMEs, as many have neither an IT department nor crisis plans.
Generally not covered: Fines, contractual penalties or the sentimental value of lost data. The issue of ransom payments is particularly critical: Here, the BACS clearly advises against complying with the demands – and to contact the police instead.
What insurers expect
Anyone who wants to protect themselves against cyber risks must also meet basic security standards. These include
- Regular software updates
- Two-factor authentication
- Backups in secure locations
- Awareness training for employees
Certificates such as Cyber-Safe or CyberSeal confirm your own standard of protection and often facilitate access to suitable policies. As the offers vary greatly, it is worth obtaining several quotes or consulting a specialist insurance broker.
A market on the move
Cyber insurance is still a relatively new product, but one that is growing in importance. According to the industry association, around 10 percent of Swiss companies are already insured. And the trend is rising. The insurance industry is not only monitoring the risk situation, but is also actively developing preventive offers. This results in solutions that go beyond pure insurance cover and promote genuine resilience.
Now is the right time
The campaign officially runs until May 31, 2025, but the issue remains acute. Cyber risks know no opening hours and do not stop at industries, company sizes or private households. Those who prepare now will not only protect their company, but also their employees, partners and customers. And if you take cyber security seriously, you no longer need any excuses – just take the first step.
Binci Heeb
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