Emerging Cybersecurity Trends for 2026: Insights from Netcraft

Five Key Trends in Cybersecurity for 2026

As companies brace for the digital challenges of 2026, Netcraft has unveiled five crucial trends poised to reshape the cybersecurity landscape. These insights, emerging from the expertise of seasoned threat researchers, provide a glimpse into the current state and future of online security.

1. The Rise of AI Vulnerabilities

The evolution of artificial intelligence systems—from simple chatbots to complex autonomous agents—brings with it new vulnerabilities and risks related to data integrity. Cybercriminals might exploit these advanced AI agents for various malicious purposes, including data leaks and unauthorized access to sensitive information. With the potential for AI to aid in automating ransomware activities, securing these technologies is becoming an increasingly significant challenge. The lack of stringent protections in AI systems may also entice fraudsters looking to manipulate these agents to conduct their operations surreptitiously.

2. Proliferation of Phishing-as-a-Service

The trend of Phishing-as-a-Service, which emerged dramatically in 2025, has paved the way for coordinated phishing schemes across various sectors, complicating detection efforts. In 2026, we expect this trend to expand, particularly with the growing incidence of OAuth phishing, where attackers trick users into granting access to malicious third-party applications instead of directly stealing credentials. This new layer of deception highlights a growing sophistication in online threats, posing challenges for security systems designed to catch these frauds.

3. Effective Attack Surface Management

As persistent vulnerabilities continue to plague web-facing services, proactive attack surface management could become a vital strategy in mitigating these risks. Tools designed for attack surface management (ASM) are becoming essential for organizations to navigate pervasive vulnerabilities, such as those affecting popular frameworks and network devices. In 2026, organizations that harness these tools may find themselves better equipped to defend against large-scale exploits.

4. Increased Crime During Seasonal Events

Seasonal events and incidents that trigger significant online interactions will likely amplify criminal activities in 2026. Potential attack hotspots include phishing waves connected to tax deadlines, major sporting events like the Winter Olympics, and political milestones like midterm elections in the U.S. Additionally, the tourism sector is bracing for an uptick in impersonation scams targeting customers during holiday travel seasons. This intersection of social engineering tactics and the threat landscape signifies growing vulnerabilities for everyday users.

5. Targeting Industries with Broad Impact

As we look towards 2026, industries with far-reaching downstream effects will remain prime targets for cybercriminals. Managed Service Providers (MSPs), as well as fields like insurance and consulting, are particularly appealing for bad actors aiming to access a wider network of victims. Additionally, sectors like fintech, tied to volatile assets, will continue to refine their security infrastructures. With increasing phishing schemes targeting logistics and shipping companies, these industries must stay vigilant against fraud linked to tariffs and shipping conversations that resonate with their operations.

Robert Duncan, Netcraft’s vice president of product strategy, emphasizes the urgency for organizations to stay ahead of trends: “In 2026, we'll see continued growth in Chinese Phishing-as-a-Service operations, more convincing video deepfakes, and increasingly coordinated multi-channel scams.” He underscores the importance of adapting to these evolving threats, suggesting that defenders must leverage early insights to disrupt attacks before they escalate.

Conclusion

The insights from Netcraft’s predictions offer valuable guidance for organizations preparing for the challenges of 2026. By understanding these emerging trends, businesses will be better positioned to enhance their cybersecurity strategies and protect their assets in an increasingly complex digital landscape. As the threats evolve, a proactive and adaptive approach to cybersecurity will be essential for maintaining robust defenses.