AI has dominated cybersecurity headlines for years, but as we enter 2026, the conversation is shifting from hype to hard realities. Across incident response, threat intelligence, and security operations, Sophos experts see clearer signals of where AI is truly making an impact. For IT teams already stretched thin, this isn’t theoretical — it’s reshaping daily decisions. Defenders are having to deal with the speed and unpredictability of AI adoption inside their organizations. Sophos survey data shows IT leaders are increasingly worried about unmanaged use, data exposure, and how AI-enabled tools can amplify small mistakes. The question is no longer whether to use AI, but how to apply it responsibly to reduce noise and operational strain. Industry signals reinforce this shift.

Full report : Generative AI and cybersecurity: What Sophos experts expect in 2026.