Fortinet ® (NASDAQ: FTNT), a global cybersecurity, has released its 2025 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report, highlighting ongoing challenges organizations face due to the shortage of cybersecurity talent.

“This year’s survey further underscores the urgent need to invest in cybersecurity talent,” said Carl Windsor, CISO at Fortinet. “Without closing the skills gap, organizations will continue to face rising breach rates and escalating costs. The findings highlight an inflection point for both public and private sectors: Without bold action to build and retain cybersecurity expertise, the risks and costs will only continue to grow for our society.”

The report revealed that as companies increasingly turn to AI to strengthen security, they also recognize AI could be used in cyberattacks. Lack of cybersecurity awareness and training remains the top cause of breaches, while many boards still lack sufficient cyber knowledge. Organizations are seeking personnel with certifications to address these gaps.

Key findings include:

• 86% of organizations experienced at least one cyber breach in 2024, with 28% reporting five or more.
• More than 50% cited lack of IT security skills and training as a major cause of breaches.
• 97% of organizations are using or planning AI-enabled cybersecurity solutions, though 48% report insufficient AI expertise among staff.

The report also highlighted that board-level focus on cybersecurity is increasing, with 76% of boards prioritizing the issue in 2024. Yet, fewer than half fully understand the risks AI may pose to their organizations.

Fortinet emphasized the importance of certifications and upskilling. The Fortinet Training Institute provides extensive programs, including Security Awareness Training and AI-focused modules, aiming to train 1 million people in cybersecurity globally by the end of 2026.

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