The cybersecurity landscape is shifting dramatically as artificial intelligence reshapes both threats and defenses, according to Fortinet’s latest global research, which spans 1,850 IT decision-makers across 29 countries.
Breaches Remain Costly and Common
The data paints a sobering picture: 86% of organizations experienced at least one breach in 2024, with over half reporting costs exceeding $1 million. Malware, phishing, and web attacks continue to dominate, accounting for 78% of all incidents, while 52% of companies say directors or executives faced fines, jail time, or job loss following cyberattacks.
The AI Paradox
Organizations face a curious contradiction: nearly half (49%) worry that AI will amplify cyberattacks, yet 97% are either using or planning to deploy AI-powered security solutions. The primary challenge isn’t technology adoption—it’s finding people who understand it. 48% cite a lack of AI expertise as their biggest implementation hurdle.
Interestingly, 87% of leaders believe AI will enhance rather than replace cybersecurity roles, suggesting the technology will augment human expertise rather than eliminate it.
Board Awareness Lags Behind Reality
While 76% of boards increased cybersecurity focus in 2024, fewer than half of leaders believe their board members fully grasp AI-related risks. This knowledge gap exists even as boards discuss mandatory certifications for IT staff and security awareness training programs.
The Human Element Remains Critical
IT leaders identify three interconnected breach causes: lack of employee security awareness (56%), insufficient cybersecurity skills and training (54%), and missing security products (50%). Data, cloud, and network security emerge as the most sought-after skills.
The Certification Conundrum
Despite 89% of decision-makers preferring certified candidates, willingness to pay for employee certifications plummeted from 89% to 73% year-over-year. This shift seems counterintuitive, given that 48% cite a lack of training opportunities as their top retention challenge.
Untapped Talent Pools
Organizations maintain structured recruiting initiatives for women (70%) and minorities (57%), but lag significantly for veterans (45%) and veterans’ spouses (38%). Meanwhile, 52% still require four-year degrees, potentially limiting access to qualified candidates with alternative credentials.
The report reveals an industry at a crossroads: embracing AI’s potential while grappling with knowledge gaps, investing in technology while potentially shortchanging training, and seeking talent while maintaining traditional barriers to entry.
