Swiss Federal Council reviews AI's impact on cybersecurity, from phishing risks to threat detection benefits, updating NCS for transparency.
Switzerland's Federal Council recently delved into the ways artificial intelligence is reshaping the landscape of cybersecurity, weighing both its potential benefits and dangers. This analysis stems from a directive to evaluate whether the country's National Cyberstrategy remains effective amid AI's swift progress. The report, published on December 12, 2025, emphasizes that AI intensifies ongoing patterns in digital threats and protections rather than overhauling the core principles of the field.
The inquiry was sparked by a postulate from National Council member Gerhard Andrey, urging a closer look at AI's implications. On the offensive front, AI tools are making it easier for adversaries to orchestrate sophisticated assaults. For example, they can automate the creation of phishing emails tailored to specific languages, sectors, or even individuals, requiring far less expertise than before. Similarly, AI drives the production of lifelike deepfake content and adaptive hacking methods that slip past conventional safeguards, leading to an uptick in both the number and complexity of incidents.
Yet, the report underscores that AI isn't rewriting the rules of cybersecurity—it's simply speeding them up. A key concern is how it democratizes malicious activities, allowing those with limited skills to execute attacks more efficiently. On the flip side, defensive applications hold significant promise. AI can assist understaffed security operations by automating routine tasks, accelerating the spotting of vulnerabilities, and refining response tactics, ultimately fortifying systems against evolving risks.
To address these dynamics, the Federal Council plans to enhance visibility within the National Cyberstrategy. Existing initiatives already incorporate AI elements, providing a framework for adaptability. Moving forward, the National Cyber Security Centre will routinely monitor and evaluate related projects. The strategy will incorporate new AI-focused efforts to promote openness and precise management.
Additionally, the annual report from the NCS Steering Committee will feature a section dedicated to AI advancements in cybersecurity. This step demonstrates Switzerland's commitment to integrating emerging technologies thoughtfully as part of its broader cyber defense efforts.
