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EVERYDAY RESILIENCE TAKES CENTER STAGE
The Global Cyber Alliance (GCA) predicts a challenging cybersecurity landscape in 2026. This follows the international nonprofit’s release of its 2025 trend review and response strategies outlining preparedness for the year ahead. “As we look to 2026, our focus is on enabling everyday resilience,” said Brian Cute, GCA’s interim CEO. He stressed that “simple, proven tools” and global collaboration can “meaningfully bend the curve on cyber risk.”
For cyber insurers and risk managers, the warning is clear: systemic exposure, unpredictable human behavior, and strained defenses threaten stability.
TELECOM HACKS EXPOSE FRAGILE INFRASTRUCTURE
GCA lists state-linked telecom attacks as its top cybersecurity prediction. The threat group Salt Typhoon broke into major telecom providers and government wiretapping systems. Their campaign gained ongoing access to global networks and targeted infrastructure used by billions.
GCA’s report on Salt Typhoon uses AIDE honeypot data to track attack patterns and suggest ways to defend against them. The alliance expects more Salt Typhoon-style attacks in 2026 and plans to increase collaboration through its AIDE portal.
AI SHIFTS THE BALANCE FOR DEFENDERS AND CRIMINALS
AI features heavily in GCA’s Cybersecurity predictions narrative. Organizations now use AI to detect anomalies, triage alerts, and streamline incident response. Criminals use the same technology to scale phishing, automate probing, and craft convincing targeted attacks.
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GCA warns that small businesses and nonprofits will be at high risk in the coming year. Many do not have enough staff, time, or expertise to handle new AI threats. To help, GCA launched an AI resource page with practical safety tips and easy-to-understand guides.
SKILLS GAP, FRAUD SURGES, AND STRUGGLING NONPROFITS
The report highlights a deepening shortage of cybersecurity workers. Many users neglect basic protections, exposing themselves to rampant phishing and fraud. GCA responded by strengthening its security toolkits and piloting an AI+Cyber curriculum for students. In 2026, the group warns that “vibe coding” will inject more bugs and vulnerabilities into production systems.
Fraudsters followed storms, humanitarian crises, and holiday shopping in 2025. Consumers suffered $12.5 billion in fraud losses in 2024, while holiday cybercrime surged nearly 30%. GCA predicts attacks will escalate as AI-based crime becomes increasingly accessible and destructive.
At the same time, cybersecurity-focused nonprofits struggle with thin budgets and small teams. GCA and the Internet Society launched the Common Good Cyber Fund to coordinate support and funding. GCA will lead an ecosystem committee in 2026 to back nonprofits protecting vulnerable communities from digital harm.
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BOTTOM LINE FOR 2026 CYBER RISK
GCA’s cybersecurity predictions send a clear warning. Infrastructure attacks are expected to get worse, AI will speed up both defense and crime, and gaps in skills and funding will continue. The alliance urges quick action, shared resources, and steady support for nonprofits working to keep people safe online.
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