As cyber threats grow more sophisticated and artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the digital landscape, organisations worldwide face a persistent shortage of cybersecurity talent, according to Fortinet’s 2026 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report.

The study, surveying more than 2,750 IT and cybersecurity decision-makers across 32 countries, finds that a lack of skilled professionals remains a leading cause of security breaches — even as firms increase spending on training, certifications and AI-powered tools.

“Cybersecurity is not simply a technical issue but a strategic business risk,” said Dr Carl Windsor, Fortinet’s chief information security officer. “While boards generally recognise the importance of cybersecurity, more investment is needed to address key issues such as rapidly accelerating AI risks and the ongoing cybersecurity skills shortage. Addressing these issues is critical to business resilience in an increasingly complex threat landscape.”