There are likely to be a number of cybersecurity challenges for organizations in 2026 that will effect businesses in every sector. These challenges include a growing threat arena, an increased complexity of requirements, and a shrinking pool of qualified personnel to perform essential information security functions. In addition, all of this is occurring at a time when businesses are realizing that cybersecurity is a critical factor for long-term competitiveness and resilience.
CISO and Cyber Workforce Shortages
CISO burnout is a continuing concern this year as cybersecurity professionals continue to leave positions due to the immense pressure of managing cybersecurity threats, compliance, and organizational expectations. In an article in Cyber Magzine, the vast majority of CISOs reported that they were experiencing severe job related stress and were considering leaving the field.
This condition is contributing to a cyber workforce gap. It is estimated that there is a shortage of over a quarter of a million security team professionals in the U.S. alone. Many cybersecurity leaders are calling for an improved work life balance for cybersecurity team members.
Increased Advanced Technology Threats
There has been a rapid increase in cyber risks as Autonomous Artificial Intelligence systems have entered the landscape. Unlike previous generations of automated cyber threats, agentic AI doesn’t just execute pre-programmed instructions, it thinks, adapts, and learns.
Quantum computing is expected to be a significant future threat as quantum computers advance. The chief anticipated concern is the technology’s threat to current current encryption methods. It is expected that post-quantum cryptography (PQC) will have to be developed and employed to counter this vulnerability. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has introduced standards for PQC to help secure data against future quantum threats.
Growing Regulatory Burdens
There has been significant regulatory changes in the cybersecurity arena in recent years. This trend is likely to continue as concerns over consumer rights, the safety of critical infrastructure, protection of defense related data, and artificial intelligence continue to grow. Many organizations face multiple layers of overlapping state, federal, and international regulations. Efforts to create a regulatory compliance program that harmonizes these standards often leads to confusion and duplicate efforts.
Increased Cyber Risks From Supply Chains
Organizations will need to enhance their defenses against evolving threats from their supply chains as the complexity and interconnectivity of supply chains grow. Regular assessments of third-party vendors are crucial to identify and mitigate potential risks. NIST SP 800-161 provides a framework for Cybersecurity Supply Chain Risk Management (C-SCRM) practices for organizations. These risk assessments help organizations identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with their supply chains, integrating these practices into overall risk management activities.
Growing Cyber Insurance Requirements
Cyber insurance has become a larger part of the cybersecurity risk management process for businesses. This is due to the rising potential impacts of cyber threats to sensitive data. The industry is adjusting as insurance premiums rising, with higher restrictions and underwriting requirements.
CVG Strategy Cybersecurity Consultants
There will be many cybersecurity challenges for organizations in 2026. This will be especially the case for small and mid size businesses. because of limited budgets, a lack of qualified personnel, and the complexity of standards. CVG Strategy can provide guidance and help your organization understand and implement contractually required NIST standards and CMMC.
We are dedicated to helping small businesses navigate federal regulations and contract requirements for Quality Management, Cybersecurity, Export Compliance, and Test and Evaluation. We can help you meet your information security management system goals. CVG Strategy QMS experts can provide the training required to understand and engage in a ISMS and make it meet desired objectives.
Identify CUI Areas with CVG Strategy Signs
CVG Strategy provides signs to identify areas containing CUI and export controlled items. These signs should be posted at all facility entrances where access controlled or export controlled articles and technology are present.