- UK -Companies in particular are struggling with fragmented IT systems
- British companies feel positive for AIS power to help
- Complex IT systems affect security, costs and more
New research has confirmed what we all expected – complex IT systems could increase security risks for businesses. Two -thirds (64%) of the UK organizations examined by Palo Alto Networks are now quoting technology complexity and the lack of interoperability as major obstacles to strong security.
It is more problematic in the UK that exceeds the European average of 55%, highlighting the need for more streamlined systems.
Furthermore, half of British respondents also added fragmented solutions that prevent their ability to deal with the threats they get.
Complex IT systems that are blamed for reduced cyber security
High on the list of concerns among companies were AI threats cited by 66% of European companies (62% in the UK). They only came in second place for data protection and regulatory compliance (68% for both) as the largest cyber risks in 2025.
Despite this, the United Kingdom seems to remain confident of AI use, with nine out of 10 (91%) relying on the security of AI applications and three out of five (61%) considering that threatening is AI’s largest security use case. Interestingly, four out of five (82%) believe they use AI to its full potential, despite conflicting studies suggesting otherwise.
Apart from security issues, companies also reported cost -effectiveness due to rising education (48%) and procurement (44%) as effects of fragmented IT systems where 39%reported higher staff outbreaks due to complexity.
“With the spread of solutions, the current task is to simplify and integrate tools to ensure they are interoperable and work within a connected ecosystem,” said Palo Alto Networks UK & I Chief Security Officer Scott McKinnon. “This has become all the more crucial in the light of increasingly sophisticated attacks, where AI creates a powerful toolbox for cyber criminals that are more easily accessible.”
However, not all bad news. Almost all (92%) British organizations say they prioritize technical stack association in 2025.
