Trends in Cybersecurity: What to Expect in 2026

As we look towards the next year, the landscape of cybersecurity is projected to evolve significantly, primarily influenced by escalating geopolitical tensions and the rapid progression of artificial intelligence (AI). Research firm Gartner outlines critical trends that will shape our approach to cybersecurity by 2026, emphasizing the need for rapid adaptation in strategies for risk management and resource allocation.

Cybersecurity Challenges in a Changing Environment

Gartner notes that cybersecurity leaders are facing unprecedented challenges as various factors converge, creating an environment of constant change. According to Alex Michaels, director of analysis at Gartner, the landscape is testing the limits of existing cybersecurity strategies. This necessitates fresh approaches to handling cyber risks, bolstering resilience, and optimizing resource deployment.

Trend 1: The Rise of Agentic AI

One of the primary trends going forward is the emergence of agentic AI, which will increase the complexity of the cybersecurity landscape. With an expanding attack surface brought about by these AI “workers,” it will be vital to implement strong governance. Michaels emphasizes the need for organizations to distinguish between sanctioned and unsanctioned AI tools, establish stringent controls, and develop comprehensive incident response plans to mitigate risks associated with this new wave of technology.

Trend 2: Navigating Regulatory Volatility

As regulatory frameworks become more stringent, boards and senior executives are increasingly held accountable for cybersecurity shortcomings. Organizations must prioritize cyber resilience, making it a core business concern. Gartner suggests that integrative efforts across legal, business, and procurement teams will be crucial for developing a successful cybersecurity approach and ensuring clarifications of accountability.

To address compliance challenges, aligning control frameworks with recognized standards and being mindful of data sovereignty will be necessary.

Trend 3: Addressing Post-Quantum Computing

The arrival of post-quantum computing poses a unique challenge to traditional encryption methods. Gartner highlights that organizations must proactively rethink their cybersecurity strategies by identifying and replacing outdated cryptographic techniques. Fostering what Gartner refers to as “cryptographic agility” will be essential for safeguarding assets ahead of potential quantum threats.

Trend 4: Evolution of Identity and Access Management

With the proliferation of AI agents in corporate networks, conventional access management practices will require significant adaptation. Enhancements in identity registration, governance, and automated credentials will become paramount. As the landscape evolves, Gartner warns of heightened risks related to access incidents unless organizations address these challenges swiftly.

Trend 5: Transformations in Security Operations Centers

AI-driven security operations centers (SOCs) are set to revolutionize operational standards. While the introduction of AI may complicate operations, Michaels stresses the ongoing importance of the human element. Successfully leveraging AI within security operations will hinge on empowering the workforce, developing “human-in-the-loop” frameworks, and aligning technology adoption with strategic objectives. This focus will be crucial for sustaining resilience as SOCs evolve.

Trend 6: Rethinking Cybersecurity Awareness with GenAI

As generative AI integration becomes more common, traditional methods of cybersecurity awareness training may no longer suffice. Recent Gartner research uncovered alarming statistics, revealing that 57% of employees utilize personal GenAI accounts for work, and 33% have shared sensitive data through unauthorized platforms. Organizations will need to transition from generic awareness training to adaptive behavioral programs focused on AI-specific tasks.

Introducing robust governance, reinforcing secure practices, and defining policies for approved uses will be key strategies for minimizing the risk of privacy breaches and protecting intellectual property.

These upcoming trends underscore the need for proactive strategies in tackling cybersecurity challenges in a rapidly changing technological environment. Staying informed and adapting to these shifts will be crucial for organizations aiming to maintain security and resilience in the face of evolving cyber threats.