The surge in 2025 is primarily driven by digital disruption and geopolitical uncertainty. The Institute of Internal Auditors’ Internal Audit Foundation’s most recent Risk in Focus research indicates that geopolitical uncertainty
and digital disruption are experiencing the most significant increases in risk levels this year.
The survey of over 4,000 internal audit practitioners in 131 countries reveals two distinct themes that are influencing the global risk landscape: rapid technological transformation and geopolitical instability.
• The risk of geopolitical uncertainty increased by 10% in comparison to the previous year.
• Artificial intelligence was the primary driver of digital disruption, which increased by 9 percentage points.
• Cybersecurity remains the most significant global risk, with 73% of respondents indicating that it is one of their top five concerns.
