The 2026 Fortinet Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report highlights how organizations are increasingly relying on AI-powered cybersecurity tools while struggling with growing talent shortages, rising breach costs, and evolving cyber risks. The study found that 91% of organizations are using or experimenting with AI-driven security solutions, and 84% say these tools improve security team effectiveness. However, organizations continue to face major challenges recruiting cybersecurity professionals with AI expertise, with 60% citing it as their top hiring issue. Cyberattacks remain costly and common, with 86% reporting breaches in the past year and over half experiencing losses exceeding $1 million. The report also emphasizes that human factors, skills shortages, and lack of security awareness remain leading causes of breaches, while many boards still lack sufficient understanding of AI and cybersecurity risks. Certifications, AI-focused training, workforce development, and broader recruiting strategies are increasingly viewed as essential to strengthening long-term cyber resilience.

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