---
title: "AI, Cyber Security and IT: What Business Owners Need to Know for 2027"
description: Prepare your business for 2027 with insights on AI adoption, evolving cyber threats, and strategic technology planning to maintain a competitive edge.
image: https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/AI%2c%20Cyber%20Security%20and%20Technology%20What%20Business%20Owners%20Need%20to%20Know%20for%202027.png
---
[](https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- About Us
- [Our Story](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Meet the Team](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team)
- [Certifications](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications)
- [Careers](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/careers)
- IT Support Services
- [IT Support Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services)
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
- Professional IT Services
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Microsoft 365](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-business-premium)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-copilot)
- [AI Adoption Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services)
- [Microsoft Azure](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
- [MDR](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/mdr-vs-soc-cyber-security-defence)
- [Microsoft Teams Phone](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-teams-phone)
- [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4)
- [DMARC](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/dmarc)
- [Enclave Networks](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/enclave-networks)
- Knowledge Hub
- [Case Studies](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/case-studies)
- [Testimonials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/success-stories)
- [Blog](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Podcast](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast)
- [Client Area](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/client-area)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/)
- About Us
- [Our Story](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Meet the Team](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team)
- [Certifications](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications)
- [Careers](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/careers)
- IT Support Services
- [IT Support Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services)
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
- Professional IT Services
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Microsoft 365](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-business-premium)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-365-copilot)
- [AI Adoption Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services)
- [Microsoft Azure](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-azure)
- [MDR](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/mdr-vs-soc-cyber-security-defence)
- [Microsoft Teams Phone](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/microsoft-teams-phone)
- [KnowBe4](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/knowbe4)
- [DMARC](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/dmarc)
- [Enclave Networks](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services/enclave-networks)
- Knowledge Hub
- [Case Studies](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/case-studies)
- [Testimonials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/success-stories)
- [Blog](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Podcast](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/podcast)
- [Client Area](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/client-area)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[Contact Us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[Back to main](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
IT Strategy
# AI, Cyber Security and IT: What Business Owners Need to Know for 2027
Grant McGregor Team
6 November 2026 • 8 min read
The changes in technology during 2026 gave business owners plenty to prepare for in 2027. AI is becoming more capable, cyber attacks are becoming harder to anticipate and the technology your business relies on more expensive to replace.
AI use among UK businesses doubled in a year, rising from 16% to 32%. Adoption reached 52% among larger organisations, but many businesses are still at an early stage, using AI mainly for straightforward tasks such as generating text and summarising documents.1
In 2027, AI agents will help businesses automate more of the repetitive work behind reporting, customer follow-ups, document reviews and internal processes.
Throughout 2026, we saw more examples of shadow AI. Employees use personal accounts to analyse figures, summarise reports or draft communications without their employer knowing which tool was used or what company information was shared, potentially exposing sensitive data.
Cyber threats also took new forms. AI helped criminals research their targets and create more convincing phishing and impersonation attempts, while attacks on connected refrigeration systems caused disruption across supermarkets in Europe.
The growth of AI infrastructure placed further pressure on the technology market in 2026. Demand from AI data centres contributed to rising memory and storage costs, with Gartner estimating that PC prices would increase by 17% compared with 2025.2 TrendForce expects DRAM supplies to remain tight in 2027, which could make device replacement more expensive and harder to plan.3
Here are four areas to watch in 2027 and what they could mean for your business.
### **1. AI adoption becomes a business priority**
While large enterprises are already using AI to improve productivity and reduce operating costs, many SMEs are still at an early stage or have not started using it at all.1
As [AI adoption](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-adoption-services) increases, businesses that continue to delay could fall behind competitors able to work faster, handle more enquiries and increase capacity without immediately growing their teams.
In our conversations with business owners this year, we have often heard that employees are already using AI before the organisation has decided which tools to approve or how company information should be handled.
The use of personal accounts or unapproved tools for work, known as shadow AI, can expose financial records, customer details and employee information. Once sensitive data leaves approved systems, the consequences can spread across cyber security, compliance, customer relationships and contractual obligations.
AI can already deliver far more value than drafting emails or summarising documents. Automating routine reports, follow-ups and internal queries can reduce administrative costs and free employees to focus on customers and revenue-generating work.
Bringing that value to life requires a clear strategy, measurable objectives, approved tools and staff training.
2027 is the time to turn basic AI use into a secure, structured approach that delivers lasting business value.
### **2. Cyber security must be built into your IT**
AI is already making cyber attacks faster and more convincing. Criminals can automate parts of an attack, find vulnerabilities more quickly and create phishing messages, calls and impersonation attempts that are harder to recognise.
### ****
The incidents reported in 2026 showed how different the consequences can be.
The attack affecting ASOS reportedly began with a criminal posing as a trusted contact and obtaining an employee's login details. Customer names and contact information were subsequently accessed, creating further opportunities for convincing phishing and impersonation attempts.
We regularly remind businesses that verification needs to be a recognised process, not something left to individual judgement. Employees should know how to confirm unusual requests and feel comfortable challenging them.
It raises an important question for every business: would your employees verify an unusual request before sharing login details, approving access or making a payment? What verification process does your business have in place?
Recognising a name, voice or email address is no longer enough. High-risk requests should be confirmed through another trusted channel, and employees need to know that pausing to verify is expected, even when the request appears to come from someone senior.
Another wave of attacks affected connected refrigeration systems across Europe. Supermarkets faced rising temperatures, food being removed from shelves and disruption to everyday operations.
The attacks are a reminder to check exactly which devices and systems are connected to your network. The list now extends far beyond laptops, tablets and mobile phones. CCTV, building controls, access systems, manufacturing equipment and other IoT devices all need clear ownership, regular security updates and appropriate protection.
Cyber Essentials provides every business with an important security baseline. It is no longer a nice-to-have certification. Its controls help protect devices, software and user accounts from common cyber attacks, but they need to form part of a wider security approach as threats continue to change.
Ask your IT provider how these systems are protected and what additional security controls you need. Continuous monitoring, vulnerability management, employee training and XDR can provide further layers of protection for your systems, information and operations.
### **3. Expect more from your managed service provider**
Your managed IT service provider is responsible for technology that supports your employees, stores company information and keeps the business operating. Cyber security and compliance should shape its advice, processes and approach to managing your technology.
We believe an IT provider should be able to explain how it protects its own organisation before asking a customer to trust it with theirs.
Ask for evidence. UKAS-accredited ISO 27001 and ISO 9001, Cyber Essentials Plus and NCSC Assured Cyber Advisor status show that a provider's security, processes and advice have been independently assessed. Assured Cyber Advisors must pass an independent assessment and work for a provider accepted under the NCSC Cyber Advisor scheme.
When you choose or review an IT provider, make [these credentials](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/certifications) part of your routine checks. The company protecting your technology should meet the same security and compliance expectations your customers, auditors and regulators place on you.
Your provider should also help you plan ahead. Regular strategy meetings should cover emerging risks, compliance requirements, business growth, device replacement and changes such as AI adoption.
You should leave those meetings with clear priorities and a practical roadmap, rather than a list of products to buy.
### **3. Technology planning becomes more important**
The growth of AI infrastructure placed further pressure on the technology market in 2026. Demand from AI data centres contributed to rising memory and storage costs, with Gartner estimating that PC prices would increase by 17% compared with 2025.2 TrendForce expects DRAM supplies to remain tight in 2027, which could make device replacement more expensive and harder to plan.3
Keeping ageing equipment for too long can affect your business in several ways. Employees lose time to slow devices, support issues increase and security risks grow once hardware or operating systems stop receiving updates.
A planned replacement cycle gives you more control. You can spread costs, avoid rushed purchases and choose equipment that will support employees over the coming years. It also creates an opportunity to consider warranties, energy efficiency, secure disposal and the total cost of ownership.
Business owners need to look beyond their immediate requirements and plan technology investments based on what the business will need over the next three to five years. A proactive approach will always deliver better results.
You should not have to plan this alone. Your IT partner should guide that process through regular strategy meetings, helping you plan replacements, prepare for growth and make the best use of your technology investment.
### **4. Start 2027 with a clear technology plan**
AI, cyber threats and the technology market will continue to change throughout 2027. Preparing early can give your business a competitive advantage by helping you use AI securely, strengthen your cyber defences and make better-informed technology decisions.
Your IT partner should help you turn these priorities into a practical roadmap. It should reflect where your business is heading, the risks and opportunities ahead, and what needs attention now, over the next 12 months and during the next three to five years.
### **Planning your technology, cyber security and AI priorities for 2027?**
Talk to our team about how we can help you identify your priorities, address the risks and build a technology roadmap for 2027 and beyond.
Call us: 0131 603 7910
Message us: [https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us](https://www.grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
[](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/6138324/ee2a578f-e4c7-437c-bcdc-7f04f9d1e161)
Sources
1\. Department for Business and Trade,*[AI Adoption Survey 2026: Executive Summary](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ai-adoption-survey-2026/ai-adoption-survey-report-2026-executive-summary)*, 29 October 2026.
2\. Gartner, Gartner Says Surging Memory Costs Will Reduce Global PC and Smartphone Shipments in 2026, 26 February 2026.
3\. TrendForce, Diverging Memory Market Outlook in 2027 as DRAM Supply Remains Tight While NAND Flash Supply Conditions Ease, 30 July 2026.
Grant McGregor Team
6 November 2026 • 8 min read
## Recent Posts
### Cyber Security Awareness Month: Why Attackers Still Target the Basics
Learn key cyber security practices for your organisation during Cyber Security Awareness Month. Protect against basic vu...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security-awareness-month)
### Shadow AI: Is Your Business Ready for AI Adoption?
Understand shadow AI's impact on your business. Discover how to assess risks, improve processes, and adopt AI securely w...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/shadow-ai-is-your-business-ready-for-ai-adoption)
### Our Net Zero Target for 2040: What Can We Change?
From company vehicles and travel to suppliers and technology, see how Grant McGregor is working towards its net zero tar...
[Read More](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/our-net-zero-target-for-2040-what-can-we-change)
Union
## Empower your business with secure, expert-led solutions.
Talk to us about people-focused technology that drives results.
[Start a conversation](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
Premium IT Services Tailored for Leading Brands
[Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-mcgregor-ltd/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.youtube.com/itgrantmcgregor) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/grantmcgregorltd/) [Follow us on Twitter](https://x.com/GrantMcGregorIT)
Quick Links
- [Home](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk)
- [About us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/about-us/our-story)
- [Knowledge Hub](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/knowledge-hub/blog)
- [Contact us](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/contact-us)
Services
- [People Centric Support](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/people-centric-support)
- [Enhanced Security Service](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/it-support-services/enhanced-security-service)
- [Professional IT Services](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/professional-it-services)
- [Cyber Security](https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/cyber-security)
Edinburgh – Chesterfield
[0131 603 7910](tel:+441316037910)
[info@grantmcgregor.co.uk](mailto:info@grantmcgregor.co.uk)
**Main Office:**
The Merchants' Hall,
22 Hanover St,
Edinburgh EH2 2EP
© 2026
Grant McGregor. All rights reserved.
[Privacy and Cookie Policy](https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/UsefulDownloads/Policies/GRMC-SEC-Privacy-and-Cookie-Policy.pdf)
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Grant McGregor Team",
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/author/grmc-team"
},
"dateModified" : "2026-11-06T16:10:11.183Z",
"datePublished" : "2026-11-06T16:00:28.000Z",
"headline" : "AI, Cyber Security and IT: What Business Owners Need to Know for 2027",
"image" : [ "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/AI%2c%20Cyber%20Security%20and%20Technology%20What%20Business%20Owners%20Need%20to%20Know%20for%202027.png" ],
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-cyber-security-and-it-what-business-owners-need-to-know-for-2027",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GRMC_blue_logo.svg"
},
"name" : "Grant McGregor"
}
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@id" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/",
"@type" : "LocalBusiness",
"address" : {
"@type" : "PostalAddress",
"addressCountry" : "GB",
"addressLocality" : "Edinburgh",
"postalCode" : "EH2 2EP",
"streetAddress" : "22 Hanover Street"
},
"geo" : {
"@type" : "GeoCoordinates",
"latitude" : 55.9526313,
"longitude" : -3.1970679
},
"image" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GRMC_blue_logo.svg",
"name" : "Grant McGregor",
"openingHoursSpecification" : {
"@type" : "OpeningHoursSpecification",
"closes" : "18:00",
"dayOfWeek" : [ "Monday", "Tuesday", "Wednesday", "Thursday", "Friday" ],
"opens" : "08:00"
},
"sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/grantmcgregorltd/", "https://x.com/GrantMcGregorIT", "https://www.youtube.com/itgrantmcgregor", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/grant-mcgregor-ltd/" ],
"telephone" : "+441316037910",
"url" : "https://grantmcgregor.co.uk/"
}
```
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "Grant McGregor team"
},
"dateModified" : "2026-11-06",
"datePublished" : "2026-11-06",
"headline" : "AI, Cyber Security and IT: What Business Owners Need to Know for 2027",
"image" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"height" : 1050,
"url" : "https://info.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/AI%2c%20Cyber%20Security%20and%20Technology%20What%20Business%20Owners%20Need%20to%20Know%20for%202027.png",
"width" : 1800
},
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-cyber-security-and-it-what-business-owners-need-to-know-for-2027",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://info.grantmcgregor.co.uk/hubfs/GM-logo-399.png"
},
"name" : "Grant McGregor"
},
"url" : "https://blog.grantmcgregor.co.uk/ai-cyber-security-and-it-what-business-owners-need-to-know-for-2027"
}
```