AI-Driven Threats Set to Redefine Cybercrime in 2026

ZDNET reports that 2026 could see AI weaponization reach a new level, with threat actors deploying AI-enabled malware and agentic AI to automate reconnaissance, phishing, lateral movement, and data theft at machine speed, while prompt injection and misconfigurations expand attack surfaces via APIs and AI-enabled browsers. Attacks will target IT and OT, with ransomware evolving into data extortion across supply chains, insiders and North Korean operators widening campaigns, and nation-states pursuing longer-term strategic objectives. CISOs will be held more accountable and cyber-resilience will become a competitive differentiator, driving upskilling and greater use of managed security services.