Voice of the CISO 2025
Every year, Proofpoint surveys cybersecurity leaders from around the world to uncover how their priorities, pressures, and challenges are evolving.
The 2025 Voice of the CISO Report reveals a growing duality: stronger confidence in cyber culture—but rising concern about imminent threats, burnout, and the impact of AI. This year, 1,600 CISOs across 16 countries shared their experiences navigating a turbulent threat landscape where AI, human risk, and boardroom expectations collide.
What’s Inside the Report
In 2025, the role of the CISO is evolving faster than ever.
From generative AI governance to data sprawl and internal threats, security leaders are balancing innovation and defense under increasing pressure.
Here’s what you’ll uncover in this year’s report:
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Confidence meets concern:
76% of CISOs believe their organization is likely to experience a material cyberattack in the next 12 months. -
Data sprawl and loss:
66% experienced a material loss of sensitive information in the past year, despite nearly all having DLP programs in place. -
The human factor:
66% cite employees as their biggest cyber vulnerability, even as awareness training rises. -
AI’s double edge:
60% believe generative AI is a security risk, yet two-thirds are exploring AI to strengthen defenses. -
Leadership under pressure:
67% of CISOs feel personally accountable for incidents, and two-thirds say expectations are excessive.
This report offers not only global statistics, but actionable insights for building resilience, aligning with executive leadership, and securing the future of work.
