AI Records Doubling Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

Rapid Growth in Demand for Cybersecurity Specialists

In 2026, artificial intelligence recorded a doubling of demand for cybersecurity professionals in the Russian labor market by 2030. This is linked to the increasing complexity of cyber threats and the need for rapid incident response, making qualified personnel extremely sought after.

According to the report «Forecast of Cyber Threats and Information Protection Tools — 2024,» the annual growth of vacancies in the information security sector reaches double-digit percentages, while the shortage of specialists persists despite the implementation of automated protection systems.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Labor Market

AI does not replace cybersecurity specialists but serves as a tool to optimize their work. According to a CIO OSP study, AI systems can reduce routine workloads, but decisions regarding information protection still require human analysis and judgment.

In 2026, companies are actively investing in technologies with AI elements that help detect anomalies and predict attacks. However, the role of the cybersecurity expert remains key, sustaining high demand for qualified employees.

Rising Costs and Investments in Information Security

According to the TAdviser report, expenditures of Russian companies on cybersecurity grew by 15% in 2025–2026, reaching several tens of billions of rubles. The increase in costs is driven by the need to update infrastructure and implement new protection tools.

In 2026, major IT sector players such as Rostelecom and Kaspersky Lab are actively developing training and certification programs for specialists, contributing to the formation of a more qualified talent pool.

Career Prospects and Salaries

Despite the growing demand, salary growth dynamics for cybersecurity specialists remain moderate—about 5% year-on-year, analysts from CNews report based on the results of 2025–2026. The median salary of specialists in Moscow has reached 100,000 rubles per month.

Demand stimulates the development of new competencies, including working with AI tools and big data analysis. This opens additional career opportunities and increases the overall competitiveness of the profile in the labor market.

Government Support and Strategic Initiatives

The role of the state in cybersecurity development remains significant. According to the report «Methods and Systems of Information Protection,» the Russian government continues to invest in creating a national cyber defense system and training personnel, which should reduce risks to critical infrastructures.

In 2026, new support programs for small and medium-sized businesses in the field of information security were launched, contributing to market expansion and the creation of additional jobs for information security specialists.

Conclusion: The doubling of demand for cybersecurity specialists in the coming years is driven by the growth of digital threats, AI development, and active government support.