Cyber Crime
Russian Hackers Target Swiss Banks and Local Councils Amid World Economic Forum
Russian hackers targeted Swiss banks and councils during WEF 2025 with DDoS attacks, disrupting websites but avoiding data breaches.
As world leaders converge in Davos for the annual World Economic Forum (WEF), Russian hackers have launched a series of cyberattacks on Swiss institutions. The attacks, targeting regional banks and local councils, were reported by the Swiss news agency ATS on Tuesday, sending ripples of concern across Switzerland.
Coordinated Attacks on Key Institutions
The National Cybersecurity Centre (NCSC) had anticipated potential cyber threats during the high-profile gathering in Davos. This prediction became reality as the websites of Zurich and Vaud cantonal banks, along with local government portals in Adligenswil, Kriens, and Ebikon near Lucerne, came under attack.
As of 11:00 AM local time (1000 GMT), these websites remained inaccessible, according to observations by AFP.
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The Culprits: Russian Hacker Group NoName
The NCSC has attributed the attacks to a Russian hacker group called “NoName.” Known for disruptive cyber activities, the group executed a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack. This method involves overwhelming websites and applications with excessive traffic, rendering them inaccessible to users.
While DDoS attacks are disruptive, the NCSC confirmed they do not result in data breaches or compromise sensitive information. Instead, the incidents appear to be a calculated attempt to draw attention, described by the NCSC as an “online demonstration.”
A Timely Warning for Cybersecurity
The timing of these attacks is significant, given the ongoing World Economic Forum, which brings together political and economic leaders to discuss global challenges. Cybersecurity experts view the attacks as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities institutions face during high-profile events.
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Switzerland, known for its neutrality and robust financial sector, is no stranger to cyber threats. However, the attacks underscore the growing sophistication and intent of hacker groups to disrupt critical services and gain visibility.
Response and Preparedness
Authorities have not disclosed specific measures being taken to mitigate the attacks, but the NCSC continues to monitor the situation closely. Cybersecurity experts stress the importance of resilience against such threats, especially during events like the WEF, which attract global attention.
What This Means for Switzerland and the World
The attacks highlight the ever-present risk of cyber threats in today’s interconnected world. They serve as a wake-up call for institutions to bolster their defenses and for governments to prioritize cybersecurity in international discussions.
As the WEF unfolds in Davos, the focus on global cooperation and innovation may now include an added emphasis on combating the evolving landscape of cybercrime.