Navigating Tomorrow: Preparing for Cybersecurity in 2026

As we gaze into the future, 2026 emerges on the horizon as a pivotal year for technological innovation, particularly shaped by the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI). However, with this newfound promise comes a surge of complex cyber threats, as highlighted by ISACA’s latest research. Here’s what we can expect and how we can prepare for this evolving landscape.

Five Things to Expect in 2026:

1. AI Dominates the Agenda

Artificial intelligence, especially machine learning and generative AI, is set to take center stage. According to ISACA, 62% of security professionals consider AI a top technology priority for 2026. This powerful technology is not just a tool for efficiency in cybersecurity efforts; it also complicates the threat landscape. From predictive analytics for threat detection to automating responses, AI will significantly reshape how we approach security.

2. Intensified Cybersecurity Risks

The rise of AI also heralds new vulnerabilities. Organizations anticipate facing various threats, such as AI-driven social engineering (63%), ransomware/extortion attacks (54%), and insider threats (35%). The sophistication of AI enhances these threats, enabling remarkably targeted phishing campaigns and automating attack deployments, which means that organizations must stay one step ahead to safeguard their data.

3. Talent Shortages Threaten Progress

Despite the pressing demand for digital trust roles, almost half of organizations predict challenges in finding qualified professionals, particularly in audit, risk, and cybersecurity sectors. Interestingly, 39% foresee hiring more digital trust roles in 2026 than in the previous year. This presents a dual challenge: organizations must find qualified talent while also preparing existing employees for emerging technologies.

4. Workforce Upskilling is Essential

To bridge the gap in talent, organizations will prioritize workforce upskilling in data security and tech risk management. Training, role-specific certifications, and continuous learning will become increasingly critical. For instance, gaining expertise in AI-related fields can significantly enhance career prospects, with new certifications such as ISACA’s Advanced in AI Audit™ (AAIA™) and Advanced in AI Security Management™ (AAISM™) emerging.

5. Cloud Security and Migration Remain Central

As organizations continue their migration to cloud services, concerns about data compromise, regulatory compliance, and security talent shortages will remain at the forefront. Nearly half of respondents in ISACA’s survey view cloud migration and security as "very important," underscoring the ongoing need for focus on cloud security amidst this shift.

The struggle to keep pace with change and secure digital trust is compounded by resource constraints and a global shortage of skilled professionals.

Five Ways to Prepare:

1. Establish Robust AI Governance

With the benefits of AI also come risks. Establishing a solid governance framework is crucial. This means addressing issues like data privacy, algorithmic bias, and vulnerabilities in generative AI. Focusing on explainability and transparency in AI applications will be vital for fostering trust and ensuring security.

2. Accelerate Workforce Upskilling

To stay competitive, organizations must invest in upskilling their workforce in high-impact areas like AI information security and cloud security. This includes promoting continuous learning and facilitating access to relevant certifications, thus ensuring that teams are equipped to tackle evolving challenges.

3. Modernize Legacy Systems

A critical step in enhancing cybersecurity is modernizing outdated systems and infrastructures. This includes addressing vulnerabilities like unpatched applications and legacy protocols to minimize attack surfaces. Preparing for advancements, such as quantum computing, also requires proactive modernization efforts.

4. Strengthen Cyber Resilience

Creating a resilient cyber infrastructure necessitates robust disaster recovery and incident response plans. Regularly testing these plans and developing crisis management protocols is crucial for prepared responses to incidents like ransomware attacks.

5. Understand Compliance and Security Connections

Organizations must navigate evolving compliance requirements and their interplay with security operations. Engaging with communities like ISACA can provide valuable insights and resources. Conducting a thorough assessment of your organization’s AI risk profile and planning for workforce training will be essential to staying ahead in this dynamic environment.

As we approach 2026, the convergence of AI and cybersecurity will redefine the landscape. By understanding these trends and proactively implementing strategies, organizations can effectively navigate the forthcoming challenges and opportunities.