In 2026, cybersecurity is no longer the exclusive concern of companies or governments. Every connected citizen is now a potential target. The figures speak for themselves: according to the latest ANSSI reports, cyberattacks targeting individuals have increased by 47% in one year, driven by a new generation of tools powered by artificial intelligence.

The new threats changing the game in 2026

Although phishing existed long before generative AI, it has reached an unprecedented level of sophistication. Fraudulent emails are now perfectly written, personalized with your data from social networks, and mimic to perfection the tone of your bank, your employer, or someone close to you.

AI-enhanced phishing

Cybercriminals now use language models to generate thousands of personalized messages per second. These messages include your first names and references to recent events in your life (a purchase, a trip, a public post), making instinctive detection almost impossible. In 2025, 1 in 3 internet users is said to have clicked on an AI-boosted phishing link.

Audio and video deepfakes: the fake adviser scam

A video call from your banker asking you to validate an urgent transaction. A voice that sounds exactly like your boss. Real-time deepfakes are now accessible to low-skilled scammers, thanks to tools available for a few euros per month. This technique, called voice cloning, enabled several million euros to be diverted in France in the first quarter of 2026.

Consumer ransomware

Long reserved for large organizations, ransomware (software that encrypts your data and demands a ransom) now targets individuals. Your family photos, administrative documents, passwords — everything can be locked in a few minutes. The average ransom demanded from individuals in France is 850 euros.

Digital identity theft

With the multiplication of data leaks, cybercriminals have real databases containing your login details, phone numbers, and sometimes your banking information. This information is combined and resold on the dark web, then used to open loans, create accounts, or impersonate you with your relatives.

Good habits to adopt now

The good news: protecting yourself effectively requires neither technical expertise nor a huge investment. A few simple habits can drastically reduce the risks.

1. Enable two-factor authentication everywhere

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is now the most effective shield against account theft. Even if your password is compromised, access to your account remains blocked without the second factor (SMS code, authentication app, physical key). Enable it on your email, social networks, banking area — and prefer a dedicated app (Authy, Google Authenticator) rather than SMS, which is more vulnerable.

2. Use a password manager

Using the same password everywhere is like having one key for your house, your car, and your safe. A password manager (Bitwarden, 1Password, Dashlane) generates and stores unique, complex passwords for each service. You only need to remember one master password.

3. Always verify the sender before acting

When faced with an email, SMS, or urgent call asking you to act (click, confirm, transfer money), always take 30 seconds to check. Call the relevant service directly using its official number, never the one provided in the suspicious message. If in doubt, do not click.

4. Regularly update all your devices

Software updates are not just for adding new features: they fix security vulnerabilities actively exploited by hackers. Enable automatic updates on your smartphone, computer, but also your internet router and connected devices.

5. Back up your data using the 3-2-1 rule

To counter ransomware, backup is your best insurance. Apply the 3-2-1 rule: 3 copies of your data, on 2 different media, including 1 offline (external hard drive not connected to the network). Even if ransomware encrypts your files, you will be able to restore everything without paying.

What should you do if you are the victim of a cyberattack?

Despite all precautions, no one is completely safe. In the event of an incident, here are the essential steps:

• Immediately disconnect the infected device from Wi-Fi and the Internet.
• Change your passwords from another healthy device, starting with your main email account.
• Report the incident on the official platform cybermalveillance.gouv.fr, which directs you to approved professionals.
• File a complaint with the police or gendarmerie — this is essential for any insurance or reimbursement procedure.
• Contact your bank immediately if you suspect your banking details have been compromised.

2026: a necessary collective awareness

Cybersecurity is now a civic skill. Like the protective habits learned during the pandemic, basic digital reflexes must become part of our daily lives. Initiatives such as the European Cybersecurity Month (every October) or the free training courses offered by ANSSI allow everyone to learn at no cost.

Faced with constantly evolving threats, the best defense remains vigilance, information, and a few simple habits adopted today. Your digital life is worth a few minutes of attention each week.