Article
Editorial
At the end of March 2026, the Swiss Federal Office for Cybersecurity (BACS) published its half-yearly report for the second half of 2025, noting that the threat level remains high and attacks are becoming more targeted and complex. They range from "voice phishing" to "SMS blasters". Ransomware attacks target businesses of all sizes.
Meanwhile, in Germany, following the "SPIEGEL’s" revelations, there is a heated debate about the case of Collien Fernandes and digital abuse. Uncertainty is high, and cybersecurity is more urgent than ever. Yet the digital sphere and so-called real life can no longer be separated from one another. Together, they form the reality of our everyday lives. Reason enough to make cybersecurity the topic of the current issue of FOCUS.
Cybersecurity is no longer a niche technical issue. It has become a fundamental prerequisite for the functioning of the economy, the state, and society. What began with curious teenage hackers has long since developed into a professional ecosystem of attackers and defenders, regulators and researchers. Vulnerabilities are growing faster than protective measures, artificial intelligence is changing the possibilities on both sides, and the consequences of digital attacks reach deep into the real world.
This issue of FOCUS begins with five articles. In "Cybercrime Inc.", Prof. Guido Salvaneschi explains how cybercrime has developed into a global shadow economy with its own business models. Thomas Meier, CEO of InfoGuard AG, in an interview, explains what to do if a cyberattack has succeeded. He provides first-hand insight into ransomware negotiations. In his video feature, Daniel Sager examines how cybersecurity – and insecurity – has developed historically. In his background piece, Prof. Bruno Rodrigues describes the danger of being spied on at home, without any cameras or microphones. Prof. Simon Mayer and his fellow researchers focus on the manipulation of minors’ minds via social media. Their conclusion: It is the algorithms themselves that control attention, interaction, and information flows.
Cybersecurity has become an integral part of the operating systems of digitalised society. The topic is here to stay. That is why HSG FOCUS will continue to follow it. Because the issues of HSG FOCUS do not become outdated the moment they are published. They grow. So it’s worth coming back to join the discussion. Use the comments section to ask the authors questions. Sharpen your FOCUS and stay safe.