Cyber security in 2026: navigating innovation, regulation and resilience

Global state of cyber security

Heading into 2026, cybersecurity has become a core pillar of digital transformation. The accelerated adoption of AI represents the most profound shift since the move to cloud, introducing disruption not only through changing business strategies but also through a fast-evolving regulatory environment. 

Key insights

• Leading organisations are moving beyond cyber security as a cost centre and finding strategic ways to leverage it as a competitive advantage
• Whilst AI introduces many new risks, it also offers specific opportunities that resilient organisations must consider
• With hundreds of disparate compliance and reporting requirements bogging down cyber teams, one approach is allowing businesses to grow, expand and innovate confidently
• Data governance has become the cornerstone of effective cyber security strategies; our experts share crucial advice for approaching governance strategies amidst complex ecosystems
• The cyber security skills gap continues to widen, particularly for professionals who understand both traditional security and emerging technologies

To move forward, organisations must embed cyber security into their innovation and implementation strategies whilst staying agile to adapt to evolving threats. Those that do will protect their assets and gain a competitive edge in the digital economy.

The future of cyber security is not about choosing between security and innovation; it is about achieving both simultaneously. This means thoughtful planning, strategic investment and collaborative approaches that recognise cyber security as a shared responsibility.

Jan Matto Partner

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