Thales 2025 Data Threat Report: 70% of Organizations Cite Rapid AI Development as Top Security Risk

Thales today released its 2025 Data Threat Report, an annual analysis of the latest data security threats, trends, and emerging concerns. The report, based on a survey of over 3,100 IT and security professionals from 20 countries and 15 industries, highlights that nearly 70% of organizations consider the fast-moving ecosystem of artificial intelligence (AI), especially generative AI, as their top security risk. The Thales Data Threat Report is a comprehensive document that delves into the challenges and vulnerabilities organizations face in the ever-evolving landscape of data protection. This year's findings underscore the significant impact that the rapid advancement of AI technologies is having on cybersecurity strategies. Generative AI, which includes tools like chatbots and content generators, has seen explosive growth, prompting concerns about how quickly these technologies can be developed and deployed without adequate security measures. According to the report, the main security risks associated with generative AI include the potential for misuse, such as creating convincing deepfakes and generating malicious code, and the challenges of securing AI models against attacks. The speed at which new AI applications are being introduced also makes it difficult for organizations to keep up with necessary security protocols, leaving them vulnerable to various cyber threats. Thales' report further reveals that many organizations are struggling to integrate these innovative AI tools into their existing security frameworks. While the benefits of AI, such as improved automation and enhanced efficiency, are widely recognized, the report emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes security alongside innovation. It calls for increased collaboration between AI developers, security professionals, and regulatory bodies to establish robust standards and practices. In addition to the concerns around generative AI, the report identifies several other critical areas in data security. These include the increasing complexity of hybrid cloud environments, the prevalence of ransomware attacks, and the growing importance of zero trust architectures. The survey indicates that organizations are beginning to adopt a more proactive stance towards security, with many investing in advanced solutions to manage these risks. However, the report also notes that budget constraints and a lack of skilled personnel remain significant barriers to implementing comprehensive security measures. To address these challenges, Thales recommends a multi-faceted approach that combines strategic planning, investment in security technologies, and ongoing education and training for employees. The 2025 Thales Data Threat Report serves as a crucial resource for businesses navigating the complex and rapidly changing world of data security. By providing insights into emerging threats and best practices, it aims to help organizations make informed decisions and develop effective strategies to protect their data and systems. As AI continues to transform the digital landscape, the report underscores the importance of staying vigilant and adaptive to ensure long-term security resilience.