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NTT DATA’s new report, “The AI Security Balancing Act: From Risk to Innovation,” released on June 17, 2025, uncovers significant misalignment among C-Suite leaders regarding generative AI (GenAI) deployment. Based on a survey of over 2,300 senior decision-makers across 34 countries, the findings highlight a disconnect between CEOs’ optimism and CISOs’ concerns over security risks and operational readiness.
99% of C-Suite executives plan GenAI investments in the next two years.
45% of CISOs express negative sentiments about GenAI adoption.
54% of CISOs report unclear internal GenAI responsibility policies.
88% of security leaders say legacy infrastructure hinders GenAI readiness.
64% of CISOs prioritize co-innovation with IT partners for GenAI solutions.
Only 24% of CISOs confirm a robust framework for balancing AI risks and value.
The report reveals stark differences in executive perspectives. “As organizations accelerate GenAI adoption, cybersecurity must be embedded from the outset to reinforce resilience,” said Sheetal Mehta, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Cybersecurity at NTT DATA, Inc. While 99% of C-Suite leaders, including 67% of CEOs, plan significant GenAI investments, 45% of CISOs express skepticism due to security concerns. Notably, 54% of CISOs cite unclear internal policies on GenAI responsibility, compared to only 20% of CEOs, highlighting a critical gap in alignment.
Despite 97% of CISOs identifying as GenAI decision-makers, 69% admit their teams lack the skills to implement the technology effectively. “Collaboration is highly valued by line-of-business leaders in their relationships with CISOs. However, disconnects remain,” said Craig Robinson, Research Vice President, Security Services at IDC. Only 38% of CISOs report alignment between GenAI and cybersecurity strategies, compared to 51% of CEOs. Additionally, just 24% of CISOs strongly agree their organizations have robust frameworks to balance GenAI risks and value creation.
Legacy technology poses a significant hurdle, with 88% of security leaders noting it limits business agility and GenAI readiness. Modernizing IoT, 5G, and edge computing is deemed essential for progress. To address these challenges, 64% of CISOs are turning to co-innovation with strategic IT partners, prioritizing end-to-end GenAI service offerings over standalone solutions.
Despite concerns, 81% of skeptical IT security leaders acknowledge GenAI’s potential to boost efficiency and profitability. The report emphasizes the need for stronger governance, dedicated investment, and modern infrastructure to align C-Suite priorities and unlock GenAI’s benefits securely.
NTT DATA’s findings underscore the urgency for enterprises to bridge C-Suite divides, modernize infrastructure, and establish clear governance to harness GenAI’s transformative potential while mitigating risks.
NTT DATA is a $30+ billion trusted global innovator of business and technology services. We serve 75% of the Fortune Global 100 and are committed to helping clients innovate, optimize and transform for long-term success. As a Global Top Employer, we have experts in more than 50 countries and a robust partner ecosystem of established and start-up companies. Our services include business and technology consulting, data and artificial intelligence, industry solutions, as well as the development, implementation and management of applications, infrastructure and connectivity. We are also one of the leading providers of digital and AI infrastructure in the world. NTT DATA is part of NTT Group, which invests over $3.6 billion each year in R&D to help organizations and society move confidently and sustainably into the digital future.
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