(26.11.2025) Cyberattacks remain by far the main concern for Swiss employers. According to a study by the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), more than eight out of ten companies (81.6 percent) expect a significant increase in cyberattacks in 2026.
The companies surveyed fear not only financial losses but also reputational damage among investors, customers and the general public.
Many employers acknowledge the risks associated with increased AI use. Nearly 45 percent consider these risks "rather high", 18.5 percent "high" and 5.6 percent "very high". By contrast, less than a quarter (24.1 percent) consider them "rather low", and 3.7 percent "low". These findings are consistent with reported experience, as more than 40 percent of respondents state they have already been targeted by fraud attempts involving AI. New generative technologies make it easier to create fake profiles or falsify payment documents.
A large share of participants nevertheless believe AI has a role to play in cybersecurity. Nearly 45 percent of companies view it as an opportunity or even a clear solution to reduce economic crime risks and detect incidents more rapidly.
According to the authors of the study, the lack of knowledge regarding current and emerging cyberthreats remains significant and affects one in two Swiss companies. More than a third (32.7 percent) also have no risk management structure in place.
Beyond cybercrime, fraud (67.3 percent), money laundering (53.1 percent) and offenses related to debt enforcement and bankruptcy (49 percent) rank among the most serious concerns for Swiss companies.
The study was carried out in partnership with the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) Switzerland Chapter.
Last modification 26.11.2025
