What does the Harvey Nash report say about cybersecurity pay?

The report found that over 75% of cybersecurity professionals did not receive a pay rise last year, contributing to widespread feelings of being undervalued.

Are cybersecurity professionals happy in their jobs?

No. The report places cybersecurity professionals as the third most likely group in the tech industry to be unhappy, with 23% describing themselves as dissatisfied in their roles.

Will this make people leave cybersecurity jobs?

Yes. With many feeling undervalued and underpaid, and given the high demand for these skills, the report suggests professionals are considering seeking new roles elsewhere.

🛡️ Security Tools

[Cybersecurity Crisis] Most Feel Undervalued, Underpaid

Everyone's bracing for the next big cyberattack. Turns out, the people defending us are too — but for entirely different reasons. They're not getting paid, and they're over it.

Threat Digest Apr 27, 2026 4 min read

A stressed cybersecurity professional looking at a laptop screen with complex code and alerts.

⚡ Key Takeaways

Over 75% of cybersecurity pros received no pay rise last year. 𝕏
Half of cybersecurity professionals feel undervalued. 𝕏
Only 45% of cybersecurity pros expect a pay increase in the next 12 months. 𝕏
Despite major cyber incidents, most organizations haven't increased cybersecurity resources. 𝕏
Professionals feeling undervalued are likely to seek new, better-paying roles. 𝕏