Cybersecurity is heading into a major shift in 2026. Hackers are no longer just testing AI — they are now using it as their main tool. With AI, they can run bigger attacks, scan systems faster, and create very realistic scams.

Trouble Ahead

Global instability and fast tech growth mean security teams must change how they work. Many Security Operations Centres (SOCs) already deal with around 11,000 alerts every day. In 2026, this will get worse. More alerts, more complex threats, and more pressure on teams. If SOCs cannot keep up, they will fall behind quickly.

Here are the three biggest problems — and how to fix them.

1. Smarter Attacks Are Sneaking Through

Hackers are getting better at hiding. Some attacks trick people into running harmful commands themselves. Others use tools already inside Windows to cover their tracks. Many phishing attacks now use QR codes, fake installers, CAPTCHAs, or rewritten links. Traditional security tools cannot follow these steps because they cannot click, solve puzzles, or behave like a real user.

Fix: Use interactive malware analysis
ANY.RUN’s Interactive Sandbox uses machine learning to act like a human analyst. It clicks, solves CAPTCHAs, opens links, and forces the malware to reveal itself. It can read QR codes, clean up modified URLs, open attachments, and run hidden files.

This gives SOC teams the full attack chain in seconds, helping them collect key indicators and write better detection rules immediately.

2. Too Many Alerts Are Burning Out Analysts

Most SOC alerts are false alarms. According to the 2024 SANS SOC Survey, only about 19% are real issues. Analysts spend huge amounts of time checking alerts with little context. This causes stress, turnover, and missed threats. In 2026, AI-powered attacks will increase alert noise even more.

Fix: Use strong, fast threat intelligence
ANY.RUN’s Threat Intelligence Lookup and TI Feeds provide context instantly. With data from over 15,000 SOCs, analysts can check an item and get all related information in seconds: if it’s dangerous, where it appears, what campaign it belongs to, and how it behaves.

This reduces burnout and cuts detection time dramatically.

3. Proving Security ROI

Security costs money, but leaders want proof that it reduces risk. ANY.RUN helps show real value by preventing attacks, cutting false positives, automating triage, speeding response, and keeping intelligence up to date.

Act Before 2026
AI is changing cyber defence now. Smarter threats, alert overload, and budget pressure won’t wait. Use interactive analysis and real-time intelligence to protect your SOC and support your team.

Ready to see the impact? Get an ANY.RUN demo and try it for yourself.Attach