The cybersecurity landscape is changing. Is your bank keeping up?
As 2026 comes to a close, one thing is clear: Artificial intelligence is changing how banks operate, how cybercriminals attack, and how financial institutions must approach risk management.
For community banks, the challenge isn’t simply keeping up with new technology. It’s understanding where AI is already being used, identifying the risks it introduces, and establishing the right safeguards.
And here’s something every bank leadership team needs to recognize: Even if your bank hasn’t officially adopted AI, chances are you’re already using it or your vendors are.
Your employees may be using generative AI tools to improve productivity. Your vendors may have integrated AI into products and services you already rely on. Meanwhile, cybercriminals are using the same technology to create increasingly convincing fraud schemes.
What Should Your Bank Be Thinking About for 2027?
1. Know Where AI Is Being Used
You can’t manage risks you haven’t identified. Understand which AI tools employees and vendors are using and what information those tools can access.
2. Strengthen Your AI Governance
Establish clear policies outlining approved tools, acceptable use, data protection, employee responsibilities, and management oversight.
3. Rethink Employee Cybersecurity Training
AI-powered phishing, voice cloning, and social engineering are making traditional warning signs harder to recognize. Your employees need training that reflects today’s threats.
4. Evaluate Your Vendors
Third-party AI capabilities can introduce additional risks. Understand how your vendors use AI, protect sensitive information, and manage cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
5. Make AI Governance an Ongoing Conversation
AI is evolving too quickly for a policy you review once a year and then forget. Build regular reviews into your governance process and reassess whenever significant changes occur.
AI isn’t a future consideration. It’s a current risk management responsibility.
The community banks that succeed in 2027 will be those that approach AI thoughtfully, educate their employees, strengthen their cybersecurity practices, and establish meaningful oversight.
At Curated Cyber, we help community banks navigate evolving cybersecurity risks, strengthen IT governance, and develop practical, examiner-ready programs.
Want to know where your bank should focus its efforts in 2027?
Contact us today to start the conversation!