Barracuda Networks’ latest Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report reveals that 94% of IT and security professionals report significant skills shortages within their organizations. The primary drivers behind the deficit are emerging AI-related security risks (68%) and advanced identity and phishing threats like MFA bypass (67%). While artificial intelligence and automation handle routine analysis, over half of organizations (56%) report workforce reductions alongside an increased need for human judgment during high-pressure incidents. Approximately 61% of respondents highlighted a critical lack of strategic leadership skills, particularly regarding AI governance and translating technical risks into business impact. Industry experts emphasize that successful defense in the AI era requires pairing automated tooling with well-trained human oversight, risk management, and structured career development pathways.

Full report : Barracuda Research reveals that while automation transforms daily defense operations, organizations face severe shortages in AI risk expertise, incident decision-making, and strategic governance.