The World Economic Forum (WEF) released its Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 report on Monday, produced with input from Accenture. The findings reveal that as organizations confront a rapidly evolving cyber risk landscape, driven by factors like AI adoption and geopolitical tensions, the urgency to enhance cybersecurity strategies has intensified.
According to the report, 94% of surveyed leaders assert that AI will significantly impact cybersecurity in the near future. The focus on AI security has surged, rising from 37% in 2025 to 64% in 2026. However, 87% of participants also acknowledged AI-related risks as the most rapidly escalating cyber threat for 2025. Geopolitical considerations are crucial, with 64% of companies integrating such factors into their cybersecurity planning, while 91% of large firms have modified their strategies in response to geopolitical instability.
Confidence in national readiness for major cyber incidents is declining, as 31% of respondents express low confidence, an increase from 26% in the previous year. The report underscores that fostering shared responsibility for cybersecurity is essential for building trust and innovation in a world where digital and physical lines are increasingly blurred.