Understanding the 2026 Global Digital Trust Insights Survey

In an era where cybersecurity is increasingly at the forefront of business operations, the importance of understanding industry perspectives and strategies cannot be overstated. The 2026 Global Digital Trust Insights survey sheds light on these details, offering a comprehensive view of the current landscape in cybersecurity. Conducted by PwC Research between May and July 2025, this survey stands as a crucial resource for business and technology executives.

An Overview of the Survey

The survey gathered insights from 3,887 business and technology executives, marking it as one of the largest surveys in the cybersecurity field. Its historical significance is underscored by its previous iteration, known as the Global State of Information Security Survey (GSISS). Now in its 28th year, it holds the title of the longest-running annual survey on cybersecurity trends. This makes it an invaluable resource for understanding how companies across the globe are approaching digital trust and security.

Who Participated?

The survey drew responses from a diverse group of executives, ensuring a broad spectrum of perspectives. Notably, one-third of these respondents hailed from large companies with revenues of $5 billion or more. This demographic is essential, as it includes decision-makers who have the power to influence significant changes within their organizations.

Industry Representation

The diversity of industries represented in the survey is striking. Participants included executives from various sectors:

• Financial Services: 21%
• Industrial Manufacturing and Automotive: 21%
• Tech, Media, and Telecom: 19%
• Retail and Consumer Markets: 16%
• Healthcare: 10%
• Energy, Utilities, and Resources: 9%
• Government and Public Services: 4%

This variety illustrates how cybersecurity concerns permeate all aspects of business, from traditional sectors like manufacturing to innovative fields like technology and media.

Geographic Distribution

Geographically, the survey captured perspectives from 72 countries, revealing a rich tapestry of insights:

• Western Europe: 32%
• North America: 27%
• Asia Pacific: 18%
• Latin America: 11%
• Central and Eastern Europe: 6%
• Africa: 4%
• Middle East: 3%

This global representation provides a well-rounded understanding of how different regions approach cybersecurity and digital trust, highlighting both common challenges and unique cultural differences.

Importance of Senior Executives’ Insights

A standout feature of the Global Digital Trust Insights survey is its focus on gathering insights from senior business executives rather than solely from security and technology professionals. This approach enables a more holistic understanding of cybersecurity implications, allowing organizations to align their strategies with overall business goals.

PwC Research: The Driving Force

Conducted by PwC Research, PwC’s global Centre of Excellence for market research and insights, this survey benefits from the organization’s extensive expertise in business analysis and market trends. Their commitment to providing high-quality, actionable insights further enhances the value of the data collected.

The Evolving Landscape of Cybersecurity

As we delve into the findings of the 2026 Global Digital Trust Insights survey, it’s clear that the landscape of cybersecurity is ever-evolving. With increasing digital threats, both established and emerging, organizations must remain vigilant and informed. This survey serves as an essential tool for executives who want to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly complex digital world.