Among existing cybersecurity threats, attacks against AI systems are the ones leaders feel least prepared for, according to a new PwC report released at Sibos 2026.
PwC surveyed 3,934 business and technology leaders across 71 countries. Half of security leaders say preparedness for cybersecurity attacks on AI systems is their biggest gap. Leaders are struggling to meet demand while recognizing security’s equal importance.
The report notes rising use of managed services across AI and cloud security as overwhelmed leaders seek partner expertise, and links AI preparedness to future challenges such as quantum computing.
Tonya Ugoretz, Cyber and Risk Innovation Institute co-leader, PwC: “Security isn’t a break on innovation; it’s what allows firms to innovate with confidence. A strong foundation of trusted data, clear governance, and resilience to disruption becomes even more important as financial institutions simultaneously invest in using AI, securing AI and defending against AI in the hands of threat actors.”
Despite lower preparedness, 86% expect cybersecurity budgets to increase and 58% include AI in top cyber priorities. Governance ownership remains undefined—responses split across CIOs, CTOs, technology functions, dedicated AI leaders, and CISOs.
Peter Pollini, financial services industry leader, PwC: “In financial services, attacks targeting AI systems are the threat organisations feel least prepared for. Security, governance, and resilience need to be built into AI adoption from the start rather than added later.”