Ireland’s Cybersecurity Paradox: Lagging in AI Defense While Leading in Workforce Development

The Global Cybersecurity Landscape in 2024

According to PwC’s comprehensive 2026 Global Digital Trust Insights survey, which gathered responses from 4,000 business and technology executives across 72 countries, organizations worldwide are facing unprecedented challenges from emerging technologies. The research reveals that less than half of global organizations consider themselves “very capable” of withstanding a major cyberattack, even as artificial intelligence and quantum computing introduce new vulnerabilities to the threat management ecosystem.

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Ireland’s Investment Strategy: A Mixed Picture

Irish businesses demonstrate a complex relationship with cybersecurity investment. While 57% of Irish organizations are increasing their cyber risk management investments, this figure represents a decline from previous years and sits slightly below the global average of 60%. This trend becomes more concerning when considering that last year, 66% of Irish organizations planned budget increases, which was already lower than the global average at that time., according to technology insights

However, Irish companies show strategic wisdom in their approach to supply chain security. 32% of Irish organizations are changing suppliers to reduce exposure to third-party risks, outperforming the global average of 26%. This proactive stance demonstrates that Irish businesses recognize where their vulnerabilities lie and are taking concrete steps to address them.

The AI Security Conundrum

Artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and threats in the cybersecurity domain. Globally, 78% of surveyed organizations plan to increase their cybersecurity budgets with AI as their top priority. Yet Irish leaders show notable hesitation—42% express uncertainty about AI’s value for cyber defense, significantly above the global average of 34%., according to additional coverage

The most concerning AI-powered threats identified globally include:

• AI-powered malware (62% of organizations concerned)
• AI-driven supply chain attacks (56%)
• Deepfake social engineering (48%)

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Leonard McAuliffe, cyber security partner at PwC Ireland, emphasizes that “cyber priorities are shifting and technologies like AI and quantum computing are reshaping risk. For Irish firms, the message is clear – they recognise the potential of advanced technologies, but many are still finding their footing.”, according to technology trends

Quantum Computing: The Looming Threat

Perhaps the most alarming finding concerns quantum computing preparedness. Experts estimate that quantum computing could break current encryption protocols by 2030, yet only 8% of Irish organizations are actively implementing quantum-resistant technologies. This figure falls dramatically below the global average of 22%, highlighting a significant vulnerability in Ireland’s digital infrastructure.

There is some hope, however, as 67% of Irish organizations are either exploring quantum-secure options or piloting the technology, slightly above the global average of 62%. The primary barriers to quantum security implementation include limited understanding of post-quantum risks, resource constraints, and competing organizational priorities.

Ireland’s Strength: Workforce Development

Where Irish businesses excel is in their commitment to cybersecurity workforce development. Irish companies are addressing the cyber talent gap through upskilling and reskilling initiatives at rates higher than global averages. Specifically, 43% of Irish organizations plan to shape their cybersecurity spending around ongoing security training, considerably ahead of the global average of 28%.

This focus on human capital extends to practical implementation. Irish businesses are leveraging AI and machine learning tools, along with security automation technologies, to enhance their cybersecurity capabilities more aggressively than their international counterparts.

The Financial Impact of Cyber Breaches

The financial consequences of cybersecurity failures are substantial globally. PwC’s survey reveals that 39% of organizations worldwide experienced breaches costing over $500,000, with 11% exceeding $10 million and 3% surpassing $20 million in costs., as covered previously

In Ireland, the situation is equally concerning. The average cyber ransom cost companies nearly €700,000 last year, with one in three large enterprises admitting to paying at least one ransom. These figures underscore the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures.

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Regulatory Environment and Strategic Recommendations

Moira Cronin, business assurance partner at PwC Ireland, highlights the growing regulatory pressure: “European regulations like the Digital Operational Resilience Act and the Network and Information Security Directive 2 are reinforcing the need for forward-thinking cyber strategies that embed resilience into the core of the business.”

McAuliffe adds crucial guidance for Irish organizations: “This year’s findings show that resilience comes from foresight, not hindsight. Organizations should ensure that they are also investing in AI and cyber skills, prioritising the upskilling and re-skilling of their cyber teams in order to clearly and proactively map the cyber risks they face.”

The Path Forward for Irish Cybersecurity

Irish businesses face a critical juncture in their cybersecurity evolution. While they demonstrate strong commitment to workforce development and supply chain security, significant gaps remain in AI adoption and quantum computing preparedness. The strategic shift toward recruiting third-party cybersecurity services—planned by 35% of Irish businesses—reflects a growing recognition of the need for specialized expertise.

The challenge for Irish organizations will be balancing their traditional strengths in human capital development with the urgent need to embrace emerging technologies for cyber defense. Those who successfully navigate this balance will be best positioned to withstand the evolving threat landscape shaped by AI and quantum computing.

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