Inside the State of IT, Fourth Edition: Security Report

The world of IT security is in constant motion, but the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are creating a seismic shift. Cybercriminals are using AI to craft more sophisticated attacks, presenting new challenges for organizations. However, AI also helps detect and respond to threats more efficiently, automating routine tasks and freeing employees for more valuable work.

In the fourth edition of our new State of IT: Security report, which surveyed more than 4,000 IT leaders worldwide (including more than 2,000 security and compliance specialists), we explore this new dynamic, offering critical insights for organizations looking to innovate while staying secure.

Our findings reveal that striking this balance isn’t always easy, but it’s possible with the right tools and by embedding security into every step of the development process. Read on for some of the key trends from the report.

Trend 1: Security budgets are on the rise (again)

Over the past five years, IT security budgets as a percentage of overall IT spending have steadily increased, rising from 8.6% in 2020 to 13.2% in 2024. Based on the findings in our report, that trend should continue. Seventy-five percent of organizations anticipate an increase in their security budgets to help fend off more frequent and sophisticated cyber threats. 

This financial commitment underscores a growing recognition of the potential for financial and reputational damage from AI attacks like data poisoning, model inversion, privacy leakage, and others Budget increases can help organizations invest in advanced security technologies, attract and retain cybersecurity professionals, and implement comprehensive security strategies.

Trend 2: Trust matters more in the AI era

AI has magnified the importance of customer trust. The report reveals that 64% of customers believe that companies handle their data irresponsibly, and 61% see AI as heightening the need for data protection. These statistics highlight the need for organizations to prioritize data stewardship. 

It’s not just about meeting compliance requirements — it’s a fundamental business imperative. Organizations can build and maintain customer confidence by demonstrating a commitment to data security, ensuring transparency in data usage, and implementing stringent security protocols.

Trend 3: Compliance is getting more complex

It’s clear from the report that the complexity of the regulatory landscape is placing a strain on security leaders. 68% of security leaders report a tangible increase in the difficulty of maintaining compliance, driven by the rapid and often fragmented rollout of new regulations across different regions and industries. 

Adding another layer of complexity is the looming uncertainty surrounding new AI-specific regulations. Forty-three percent of security leaders admit to feeling underprepared for the potential wave of rules and guidelines that may govern the development and deployment of AI technologies. The need for more explicit guidance and proactive strategies to address AI-related compliance is becoming increasingly important.

Trend 4: AI is a double-edged sword

AI provides both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to IT security. While 80% of security leaders recognize the transformative potential of AI in enhancing their security posture through automated threat detection, faster incident response, and advanced vulnerability analysis, they also acknowledge the new security and compliance challenges it introduces.

These include the risk of AI systems being exploited by malicious actors, the complexities of securing AI algorithms and training data, and the need to adapt existing compliance frameworks to address the unique aspects of AI deployments. 

Navigating this dual nature of AI requires establishing governance frameworks, proactive risk management strategies, and a continuous learning approach to stay ahead of potential AI-driven threats.

Uncover more insights from the State of IT: Security Report

These are just a few of the insights you’ll find in the State of IT: Security report. Whether you’re a security leader navigating AI governance, addressing increasing compliance demands, or aiming to build greater customer trust, this report offers valuable perspectives from your peers across industries and geographies. 

Ready to dive deeper into these findings and explore IT security in the age of AI? Download the report today to navigate the evolving security landscape and turn potential vulnerabilities into competitive advantages.