Gartner’s Cybersecurity Predictions for 2023-2026: Business Risks and Architecture

Published on June 7, 2025 | Nathirsa Blog

Image credit: Pexels / Pixabay

Gartner’s cybersecurity predictions for 2023-2026 emphasize a fundamental shift: cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue but a core component of overall business risk management. This change requires C-level executives to integrate cybersecurity risk mitigation into their performance metrics, with at least 50% expected to be accountable by 2026.

Key Predictions Overview

• Privacy Regulations Expansion: The number of states with consumer privacy laws will grow, protecting up to 5 billion individuals by 2023, demanding stronger compliance efforts.
• Cloud Services Unification: To reduce operational complexity, up to 80% of enterprises will adopt Security Service Edge (SSE) solutions, consolidating security management across cloud, internet, and private applications.
• Ransomware Response Regulations: By 2025, 20% of countries will regulate ransomware negotiations and payments, impacting organizational response strategies.

Image credit: Pexels / Pixabay

Impact on Business Operations and IT

Cybersecurity risks are becoming intrinsic to business risks. This integration means:

• Top management must deepen cybersecurity knowledge as their performance will be evaluated on risk mitigation.
• IT departments will gain more influence but face increased pressure and workload, needing to understand business processes more deeply.
• The cybersecurity talent gap and employee burnout are critical challenges, with 90% of professionals considering leaving the field.

Evolving Cybersecurity Architecture

To meet rising cybercrime and regulatory demands, organizations will adopt stricter cybersecurity architectures, including:

• Comprehensive internal policies and controls.
• Zero trust frameworks to limit access and reduce attack surfaces.
• Integrated incident response plans minimizing business disruption and protecting human lives.

Preparing for the New Cybersecurity Paradigm

Organizations should:

• Embed cybersecurity risk management into overall business resilience programs.
• Invest in unified security platforms to reduce operational complexity.
• Address workforce challenges by supporting cybersecurity professionals and closing the talent gap.
• Stay ahead of regulatory changes, especially around ransomware and privacy.

Recommended Video: Gartner 8 Cybersecurity Predictions 2023-2026

Conclusion

Gartner’s predictions highlight that cybersecurity will be a defining factor in business success and resilience over the next several years. Organizations that proactively integrate cybersecurity into their business strategies, modernize their security architectures, and invest in their workforce will be best positioned to navigate the evolving threat landscape.

For continuous updates on cybersecurity trends and strategies, visit Nathirsa Blog.