As the digital landscape evolves, 2026 is shaping up to be a turning point for cybersecurity. AI, quantum computing and increasingly sophisticated threat actors are reshaping how both businesses and individuals think about digital risks. Based on Vytautas Kaziukonis, a Forbes Councils Member and his experience as a founder and CEO in the cybersecurity space, he shares his views into three major cybersecurity trends shaping 2026 and what they mean for companies and users alike.[1]
- AI stays in the spotlight, powering both cyberthreats and defenses.
In 2025, everyone and everything was focused on AI and the countless ways it can be used. In the coming year, this trend will likely continue and gain momentum. This also means that cyberthreats fueled by AI will become much harder to contain. Attackers are no longer just using AI to scale old methods—they’re increasingly deploying autonomous malware and launching large-scale AI-powered phishing or social-engineering campaigns.
For example, the Google Threat Intelligence Group warns of a new era of self-evolving, AI-driven malware that can dynamically alter its behavior to evade detection. An even more concerning example came in September 2025, when Anthropic documented what they believe was the first large-scale cyberattack carried out with minimal human involvement, using an AI system that autonomously infiltrated global targets.
As AI advances, both businesses and everyday users face new digital threats. Millions now depend on AI tools for work and communication, often unaware of the privacy risks they pose. For example, Kaziukonis’ company's research found that all analyzed AI chatbot apps collect some form of user data, with 45% collecting location information and nearly 30% tracking users by linking or sharing their data with third parties for advertising or measurement purposes.
At the same time, there has been investment and a strategic surge in AI-security products and governance frameworks. More than $28 billion has already flowed into defense tech to counter AI threats, as investors recognize how rapidly AI is transforming cybersecurity. For businesses, this means that mastering AI-driven defense speed and building robust governance around AI becomes a competitive advantage.
- Automation rises, but demand for cybersecurity talent remains.
In 2026, demand for cybersecurity talent will keep rising, even as automation and AI handle more routine security tasks. Machine learning can detect threats or patch vulnerabilities faster, but it can’t replace the judgment and critical thinking of skilled professionals. Organizations still need people who can interpret risk, make complex decisions and connect technology with business.
ISACA’s State of Cybersecurity 2025 report shows that about 70% of experts expect continued growth in the demand for technical roles, while the World Economic Forum ranks information security analysts among the top 15 fastest-growing professions through 2030. At the same time, new roles like privacy engineers, AI ethicists and security-AI specialists are emerging as businesses adopt generative AI. In 2026, cybersecurity knowledge will be one of the most vital skills in the global economy.
- Quantum security shifts from theory to practice.
As quantum computing nears practical use, quantum security is moving from theory to action. Governments and critical industries are already beginning migrations to post-quantum cryptography (PQC). The Post-Quantum Cryptography Coalition (PQCC) published a PQC Migration Roadmap in May 2025, guiding organizations to inventory cryptographic assets, prioritize systems and plan phased transitions. National bodies like the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) are also urging early preparation to be quantum-ready over the next several years. At the same time, as JPMorgan reports, organizations are increasing R&D and investment in quantum-resistant technologies.
** Preparing For What’s Ahead: An Action Plan For Business Leaders - As cybersecurity threats evolve in 2026 from AI-driven attacks to the growing urgency of quantum readiness, businesses can no longer afford to be solely reactive. Below is what businesses can do now to stay ready for the future:
- Adopt AI-driven defense and threat simulation. Implementing AI-driven threat detection, automated response tools and red-teaming simulations helps identify vulnerabilities before attackers do.
- Strengthen vendor governance and cyber-insurance proofing tools. A company’s security is only as strong as its weakest vendor. In 2026, expect more regulators and insurers to demand proof of vendor cyber maturity. Business leaders should formalize vendor risk assessments and document compliance efforts for cyber-insurance audits.
- Invest in workforce upskilling and a security-first culture. Even the most advanced defenses can fail without informed, vigilant people. Ongoing cybersecurity training, especially in AI literacy, data privacy and incident response, should be embedded into company culture.
- Begin a post-quantum cryptography (PQC) inventory and roadmap. Business leaders should begin auditing where and how encryption is used across systems, applications and vendors. Developing a post-quantum cryptography (PQC) roadmap—including pilot projects in 2026—will ensure your organization isn’t caught unprepared when post-quantum standards become the norm.
As 2026 nears, one thing is clear: Cybersecurity is no longer just about reacting to threats, it’s about anticipating them. Businesses that embrace this reality, investing in smarter defenses, upskilling their teams and embedding security into every decision, will be the ones that thrive in an increasingly unpredictable digital landscape.
This article is shared at no charge for educational and informational purposes only.
Red Sky Alliance is a Cyber Threat Analysis and Intelligence Service organization. We provide indicators of compromise information via a notification service (RedXray) or an analysis service (CTAC). For questions, comments or assistance, please contact the office directly at 1-844-492-7225, or feedback@redskyalliance.com
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[1] https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2025/12/16/from-ai-threats-to-quantum-security-cybersecurity-trends-in-2026/
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