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The 2026 CISO Benchmark Report

The latest report from the Retail & Hospitality Information Sharing and Analysis Center (RH-ISAC) and IANS sheds light on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors. Launched on April 1, 2026, the CISO Benchmark Report reflects insights drawn from over 200 Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). As businesses face economic pressures and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), this report serves as a key resource for understanding how these leaders are maneuvering through complex challenges.

AI: A Double-Edged Sword

In a defining moment for cybersecurity, AI has emerged as both a pivotal challenge and an opportunity. The report identifies AI as the foremost concern among CISOs, surpassing traditional threats such as ransomware and phishing. A staggering 71% of respondents highlighted AI as a significant friction point. Risks associated with AI encompass data leakage, insider misuse, and governance challenges. While organizations are actively integrating AI into security operations—especially for threat detection and reporting—the addition of AI also complicates the threat landscape, demanding enhanced governance and strategic foresight.

Budget Trends amidst Economic Pressures

The financial implications for cybersecurity reveal a modest but steady trajectory. The report indicates that cybersecurity budgets have seen an increase from 0.57% to 0.75% of revenue, while IT spending grew from 3.2% to 3.9%. Looking ahead to 2026, more than half (54%) of CISOs anticipate budget increases, reflecting a cautious optimism despite broader economic realities. Noteworthy is that nearly 90% foresee growth in AI-related security budget allocations, often achieved through the reallocation of existing funds rather than depending on new financial sources.

Staffing and Efficiency

As organizations grapple with efficiency amidst economic challenges, staffing levels are expected to remain consistent. While 35% of CISOs plan to augment their full-time staff, many prefer to maintain current headcounts and leverage AI to heighten productivity. This push for efficiency may lead to a reduction in contractor roles, reflecting the shift in how security resources are managed within larger enterprises.

Evolving Role of the CISO

The report also emphasizes the broadening scope of the CISO's role. Increasingly, cybersecurity leaders are expected to oversee AI governance, product security, and overall business risk management. A significant 70% reported an expansion of their responsibilities due to AI's influence on their operational purview. However, structural challenges such as competing IT priorities and budget limitations continue to pose obstacles for the effective execution of security measures.

Conclusion

The 2026 CISO Benchmark Report serves as a vital document for understanding how CISOs are adapting to AI-driven transformations in cybersecurity. As organizations within the retail and hospitality sectors position themselves against emerging cyber threats, the findings underscore the need for continual learning, adaptation, and collaboration among security professionals. For those seeking deeper insights into these trends, the complete report is available for download.

About RH-ISAC

The Retail & Hospitality Information Sharing and Analysis Center facilitates a network for information sharing among various sectors including retailers, restaurants, hotels, and consumer product manufacturers. By fostering collaboration at all levels, RH-ISAC aims to enhance security across the industries it serves.

About IANS

IANS provides critical guidance and actionable insights designed to empower cybersecurity leadership. With resources that include expert advice and networking opportunities, IANS supports organizations in navigating the complexities of cybersecurity challenges.