NEW Microsoft Data Security Index findings, published on 29 January 2026, reveal that generative AI is being woven into data security plans at scale, with 82% of organisations having developed plans to embed generative AI into their data security operations, up from 64% the previous year.
According to the 2026 Data Security Index, more than 1,700 security leaders participated in the survey, highlighting three priorities: unifying data security, increasing generative AI oversight, and using AI solutions to improve security effectiveness. The report also shows that 32% of surveyed organisations’ data security incidents involve the use of generative AI tools, and 47% are implementing generative AI-specific controls.
It notes a shift from fragmented tools to unified platforms, with many organisations adopting Microsoft Purview and DSPM to improve visibility and governance across cloud, SaaS, and on‑premises assets. Across security operations, AI-powered agents and automation are being deployed to accelerate detection and response while preserving human oversight.