Businesses Seek AI Gains Without the Security Risks
▼ Summary
– 51% of European IT and cybersecurity professionals expect AI-driven cyber threats and deepfakes to be a major concern in 2026, with most organizations feeling unprepared to manage AI-related risks.
– Professionals are also worried about regulatory challenges, supply chain weaknesses, and their ability to detect and respond to breaches, with low confidence in handling ransomware attacks.
– Generative AI and large language models are seen as the top technology trends for 2026, while AI-driven social engineering is identified as the most significant cyber threat.
– Business continuity and resilience are key priorities, requiring staff training for responsible AI use and threat response, but many companies lack hiring plans for digital trust roles.
– Regulation is viewed as both a concern and an opportunity to build digital trust and support business growth, with a need for better understanding to approach compliance confidently.
A significant number of European IT and cybersecurity experts anticipate that AI-driven cyber threats and deepfakes will become a major source of anxiety in 2026. This concern stems largely from a widespread lack of readiness within organizations to manage the risks associated with artificial intelligence. Very few professionals express confidence in their ability to handle generative AI securely, with most acknowledging they have considerable ground to cover before they are adequately prepared for the emerging challenges.
While AI-powered dangers dominate the threat outlook for tech specialists, other critical risks continue to jeopardize business operations. Ongoing worries include navigating complex regulatory environments, addressing vulnerabilities within supply chains, and improving the capacity to detect and respond to security breaches before significant harm occurs. Furthermore, confidence levels in dealing with ransomware attacks remain notably low across the board.
For those working in cyber and digital trust, artificial intelligence presents a dual-edged sword. It is simultaneously viewed as a rapidly growing threat and a substantial opportunity, with many recognizing its potential to be genuinely transformative for their organizations.
When considering the most influential technology trends expected to shape their work in the coming years, survey respondents identified generative AI and large language models at the forefront. These tools are primarily used for generating content and code. Following closely is the application of AI and machine learning for predictive analytics. In terms of the most significant cyber threats, a majority pointed to AI-driven social engineering campaigns. The risk of insider threats, whether deliberate or unintentional, also remains a prominent concern for many businesses.
Business continuity and organizational resilience are seen as top priorities for the near future. Experts suggest that companies must invest in training their workforce not only to use AI responsibly but also to effectively counter threats originating from AI technologies. Despite this recognized need, a considerable number of organizations currently have no concrete hiring strategies for essential digital trust roles, including audit, risk management, and cybersecurity positions.
One industry leader emphasized that AI embodies both the most significant opportunity and the most serious threat currently facing businesses. He noted that the research underscores a clear reality: although organizations are starting to adopt AI’s transformative capabilities, a great many remain ill-equipped to handle its associated risks in the upcoming year. Specialized certifications in AI cybersecurity and assurance are expected to play a crucial role. These credentials will help professionals navigate the evolving risk landscape, implement effective policies, and ensure the responsible and efficient application of AI across all business functions.
Many professionals express apprehension about the increasing complexity of compliance regulations. At the same time, a strong majority also acknowledge the inherent value these rules provide. They believe that well-designed cybersecurity regulations can strengthen digital trust and ultimately support sustainable business growth. Developing a more thorough understanding of regulatory changes and their potential advantages would empower cybersecurity teams to approach compliance with greater assurance and enhance overall business resilience.
The concerns highlighted by respondents indicate a potential to fundamentally change how these issues are addressed, transforming them from sources of worry into catalysts for business expansion. For instance, when new regulations or guidelines are perceived not merely as a compliance checklist but as a chance to innovate in a resilient and forward-thinking manner, they can drive long-term positive change.
(Source: HelpNet Security)
