Phishing emails – how to protect yourself

Phishing is an attempt to obtain your personal data via fake emails or websites. Here’s how you can protect yourself.

The essentials in brief

Phishing attempts are increasing rapidly. Recently, there has been a rise in fake emails appearing to come from health insurers. Although these messages may look convincing, the aim of the fraudsters is to obtain your personal data. They often urge you to act immediately – for example, by asking you to update personal details such as your bank or credit card information.

Sanitas is not currently affected by this scam, but we want to raise your awareness of the issue so that you know how to protect yourself.

How to recognise phishing emails

Check the sender

Carefully check the domain after the @ sign. If it looks strange or contains spelling mistakes, it could be a phishing attempt.

Impersonal greeting

Are you addressed by name or with a general salutation? Phishing emails are often impersonal, as they are sent to many people at once.

Be careful with links

Does the email contain a link to another website? If hovering your mouse over the link shows a suspicious or unfamiliar web address, it could be a phishing attempt.

Request for personal data

Legitimate companies or authorities will never ask for passwords, bank details or other confidential information by email. If in doubt, contact the company via official channels to verify the message.

Unusual appearance

Watch out for spelling mistakes, an unprofessional layout or incorrect logos.

Urgent action required

Phishing emails often try to create panic. Beware of phrases like “Your account will be blocked!” or “Act now or else…”. Don’t be pressured into acting quickly.

Common content of phishing emails

Account suspension
Data verification
Promise of refunds or prizes

If you’re affected

Do not click on any links, open any attachments, or reply to the email. Avoid any interaction with the suspicious message.
Contact our customer service at 0848 150 150. Contact your bank if you have disclosed credit card information.
Report suspicious emails or websites to antiphishing.ch or the UFCS. Once you have reported the email, delete it to ensure that you do not accidentally fall for it.