IBM 2026 X-Force Threat Index: AI-Driven Attacks are Escalating as Basic Security Gaps Leave Enterprises Exposed

ARMONK, N.Y., Feb. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — IBM (NYSE: IBM) today released the 2026 X-Force Threat Intelligence Index, revealing that cybercriminals are exploiting basic security gaps at dramatically higher rates, now accelerated by AI tools that help attackers identify weaknesses faster than ever. IBM X‑Force observed a 44% increase in attacks that began with the exploitation of public-facing applications, largely driven by missing authentication controls and AI-enabled vulnerability discovery. 

Some of the key highlights include: