A national campaign based on a phishing simulation
From 23 to 27 March 2026, almost 10 million people took part in Operation Cactus, a national awareness campaign based on a large-scale online phishing simulation.
Supported by the GIP ACYMA, of which the Association e-Enfance / 3018 is a founder member, this initiative aims to reinforce vigilance in the face of cyber attacks, particularly among young people.
A life-size simulation
Operation Cactus is based on a simple principle: putting users in a real-life situation when faced with a phishing attempt.
During the campaign, pupils, teachers and parents received fraudulent messages inspired by real-life practices: offers of free manga, access to a guidance platform, teaching resources, etc.
These solicitations, which are deliberately attractive, reproduce the methods used by cybercriminals to encourage people to click.
The aim of this operation is to enable everyone to identify the warning signs and adopt the right reflexes.
Young people, a particularly vulnerable target group
Today's teenagers are particularly vulnerable to cyber risks. Multi-equipped and ultra-connected, they develop precocious uses, often accompanied by a feeling of confidence that can expose them even more to digital abuses.
At the same time, family and friends do not always have the necessary information and reflexes to support them effectively.
Phishing is now one of the main methods used by cybercriminals.
It consists of :
- impersonate a trusted organisation
- encourage the victim to click on a link or pass on information
- recover personal or banking data
The role of the Association e-Enfance / 3018 within the GIP ACYMA
As a founding member of the GIP ACYMA, the Association e-Enfance / 3018 actively contributes to national awareness-raising initiatives, drawing on its expertise in the field and its in-depth knowledge of young people's digital habits.
It is involved in :
- raising public awareness
- monitoring digital threats
- support for victims
3018: dedicated support for young victims
Every day, 3018 assists minors faced with situations such as identity theft or personal data breaches, all of which can have a significant impact on their online well-being and mental health.
When faced with these situations, young people, their parents and professionals can contact 3018, the national number dedicated to supporting victims of digital violence and harassment. By phone or by chat on the 3018 app. (Download the app 3018)
