Cyber threats and workforce readiness cited among top risks as TMT firms accelerate AI push

Survey findings show that TMT executives repeatedly flagged legacy interfaces, fragmented platforms and cross-cloud/tool sprawl as core barriers to reliable AI deployment and digital transformation, indicating heavy operational cost and inefficiency. Leaders also voiced concern that aging infrastructure limits performance and slows innovation. Protiviti helps organizations create value by modernizing critical platforms, rationalizing vendors and redesigning workflows, resulting in lower operating costs, reduced complexity and a more scalable foundation for emerging technologies.

Cybersecurity leads investment priorities at 55%, followed by data privacy at 52% and business process improvement at 28%. Leaders are focusing on secure digital environments, stronger data control and automation to reduce operational friction.

The survey shows TMT leaders see major opportunities in expanding digital platforms, delivering personalized customer experiences and unlocking new revenue from data driven services. However, they also face short-term pressure from changing customer expectations and long-term concerns about scaling next generation networks. Protiviti helps organizations create value by modernizing processes and clarifying data flows, enabling teams to deliver more consistent, customer-centered experiences without adding operational complexity.

Cybersecurity continues to be one of the most significant short-term risks for TMT executives, and the survey shows 38% are concerned about data-related risks as AI becomes more embedded across their operations. Telecom leaders also highlight new AI-driven cybersecurity vulnerabilities emerging with 5G, 6G and edge computing. Protiviti supports improved resilience by helping organizations prepare zero-trust strategies, assess readiness, evaluate identity and data controls, and build practical roadmaps—giving leaders clearer visibility, stronger governance and a more robust foundation for future security investments

The survey shows clear challenges around responsible AI governance, data quality and transparency, with 44% of executives prioritizing workforce readiness to realize AI’s value, 42% focused on integration with existing systems, and 38% concerned about data-related risks. Leaders also report that fragmented platforms and legacy systems undermine trust and reliability in AI deployments. Protiviti creates value by helping organizations establish responsible AI governance, strengthen data foundations and redesign processes to improve transparency and trust, enabling sustainable and compliant AI adoption.