Cybersecurity leaders are turning to AI and automation to reduce costs as a top priority, new research from Wipo shows.

The technology services consulting company released its State of Cybersecurity Report 2025, which surveyed over 100 global cybersecurity leaders and consultants and found that AI-driven automation and cost optimisation were among the main cybersecurity priorities for organisations.

In fact, nearly a third (30%) of respondents state that investing in AI automation to bolster cybersecurity operations and reduce costs is a key priority in 2025.

Other strategies used by CISOs to optimise costs include tools rationalisation (26%), security and risk management process optimisation (23%), and operating model simplification (20%).

The report also highlights the growing role of AI in managing cyber threats and how investing in advanced AI-driven security solutions, continuously monitoring AI developments, and fostering a culture of innovation and adaptation within cybersecurity teams can play a significant role in risk management.

Many CISOs are leveraging AI to improve threats is only topped by implementing Zero Trust security frameworks, which is a top investment priority for 97% of survey respondents.

“Cybersecurity budgets are struggling to keep pace with the growing sophistication of cyber threats,” said Tony Buffomante, SVP & global head of Cybersecurity & Risk Services, Wipro Limited.

“AI offers a solution by helping organisations strengthen defences while optimising costs. This allows CISOs to adopt a more outcome-driven focus by prioritizing risk-adjusted returns on investments.”

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The report also suggests that CISOs must work with their peers to implement the necessary data governance to leverage AI for cyber resilience across the organisation, as well as setting up a comprehensive cybersecurity training programme for all employees.

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