Google, Microsoft and OpenAI among 100 firms calling for better cyber defences

August 27, 2026 - 18:09

More than 100 leading technology companies, including Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI, have signed an open letter urging governments and businesses worldwide to step up their cybersecurity efforts. The joint statement, released this week, warns that artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the threat landscape, and that attacks powered by AI will become significantly more advanced within a matter of months, not years.

The letter, addressed to policymakers and industry leaders, argues that current defensive measures are no longer sufficient. It points to a growing wave of AI-driven phishing campaigns, automated malware, and deepfake-based social engineering that can adapt and evade traditional security tools. The signatories call for a "collective defense" approach, where information about new vulnerabilities and attack patterns is shared in real time across sectors and borders.

Among the specific recommendations are stronger encryption standards, mandatory security audits for AI systems, and the creation of public-private task forces to respond to large-scale incidents. The companies also stress that cyber resilience should be built into products from the design phase, not added as an afterthought.

The move comes as several high-profile breaches have hit critical infrastructure, healthcare, and financial services in recent months. While the letter does not name any specific incidents, it says the window to act is closing. "We have a narrow opportunity to set the norms and tools for the AI era," the text reads. "If we wait, we will be playing catch-up against adversaries who do not wait." The signatories plan to follow up with a detailed framework for governments to adopt by early next year.