Forget stolen passwords — this is how hackers are actually breaking into US companies in 2026
In 2026, hackers are increasingly exploiting software vulnerabilities rather than stealing passwords to breach corporate networks. A report indicates that vulnerability exploitation has become the leading method of data breaches, accounting for 31% of incidents. Despite the rising threat, many organizations are slow to patch critical vulnerabilities, leaving their systems exposed for extended periods.
- ▪AI-driven hackers are exploiting software flaws faster than companies can secure their systems.
- ▪For the first time in nearly two decades, exploiting vulnerabilities has overtaken stolen passwords as the primary breach method.
- ▪Only 26% of critical vulnerabilities were fully remediated throughout 2025, with a median patch application time of 43 days.
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Pro Security Forget stolen passwords — this is how hackers are actually breaking into US companies in 2026 News By Efosa Udinmwen published 26 May 2026 AI-driven hackers exploit vulnerabilities faster than companies secure their systems When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. (Image credit: Getty Images / Ronstick) Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter AI-powered hackers now exploit software flaws faster than companies can patch systemsMobile phishing scams now outperform traditional email attacks across corporate environments worldwideUnauthorized AI tools are…
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