The AI shift in cyber risk: why leaders must act now

While AI will help us improve cyber defense over time, it also accelerates the speed, scale, and sophistication of cyber threats.

Frontier AI models are anticipated to exceed current industry expectations, fundamentally transforming both offensive and defensive cyber capabilities. The timeline is not years; it is months.

In this environment, cyber resilience is integral to advancing business continuity, market confidence, and long-term value. We urge leaders to:

• understand and assess risk, readiness, and accountability
• prioritize foundational cybersecurity practices and controls
• empower cyber leaders with authority and resources
• stay actively engaged as threats and guidance evolve

Success will come from getting the basics right, acting quickly, and integrating cybersecurity into core business strategy. Those that do not will face growing operational and strategic disadvantage.

Source: UK NCSC (Cyber) (22 June 2026)