Cyber Security vs AI: What Accountants Told Us at Accountex 2025

At Accountex 2025, we posed a simple but revealing question to visitors at the T-Tech stand:

“If you could only invest in either AI or Cyber Security in 2025, which would it be?”

Armed with a token and two boxes, over 100 accountancy professionals cast their vote and the results were telling:

• 62% chose Cyber Security
• 38% chose AI

This insight sparked some fascinating conversations on the stand. Here's what we took away from the results and what they suggest about the priorities and mindset of the accountancy sector in 2025.

Why Cyber Security Came Out on Top

The clear majority prioritised cyber security and it’s no surprise. As cyber threats grow in scale and sophistication, practices are under more pressure than ever to protect client data, maintain compliance, and defend their reputation.

Accountants told us they’re increasingly concerned about:

• The rise in phishing, ransomware, and supply chain attacks
• Tougher regulatory scrutiny around data protection
• Remote and hybrid working vulnerabilities
• The reputational damage of a single breach

Many firms we spoke to are actively reviewing their defences, training staff to recognise threats, and seeking more proactive support from their IT providers.

The Growing Appetite for AI

While AI trailed slightly behind, 38% still chose it as their top investment, showing strong and growing interest.

Attendees were curious about Microsoft Copilot, automation, and data insights, but many admitted they're still unsure how to apply AI practically in their day-to-day operations.

Challenges we heard:

• “We know it’s powerful, but where do we start?”
• “How do we make sure AI tools don’t create new security risks?”
• “We don’t want to jump in without a proper strategy.”

Clearly, firms want to embrace AI, but they also want to do it securely and strategically.

To maximise the potential of Microsoft Copilot, explore our AI Academy, an eight-week programme crafted to enable accountants to fully leverage the advantages Copilot provides.

What This Means for the Sector

These results highlight a mindset shift: firms see security as the foundation. Before they can innovate with AI, they want to ensure their systems, people, and data are protected.

In short: Cyber security is the bedrock. AI is the opportunity.

Our Take at T-Tech

At T-Tech, we believe accountancy firms shouldn’t have to choose between cyber security and AI, you need both to build a future-ready firm. But we understand that priorities matter.

Whether you're:

• Reviewing your security posture
• Exploring practical AI tools like Copilot
• Or looking for strategic guidance across both areas

We’re here to help you invest wisely with the right foundations and the right roadmap.

Let’s Talk Strategy
Contact us today and one of our IT and AI experts will be in touch to show you how your firm can strike the right balance.

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