Cyber insurance has evolved quickly over the last few years. What once felt like a niche or optional coverage is now a core part of many insurance programs. As 2026 approaches, carriers are no longer asking whether a business has cyber insurance. They are asking how seriously that business manages cyber risk.
For buyers, this shift has changed the conversation. Coverage availability, pricing, and terms increasingly depend on how well a company can demonstrate its controls, processes, and preparedness. Below is a clear look at what carriers will expect from cyber buyers in 2026 and how leaders can position themselves more competitively.
The Biggest Shift: From Attestation to Verification
In earlier years, cyber underwriting relied heavily on self-reported questionnaires. In 2026, carriers are moving beyond simple attestations and placing greater weight on verification.
That means underwriters are looking for consistency between what a company says it does and what its systems and vendors actually support. Gaps between policy language, internal practices, and vendor behavior are more likely to raise concerns.
For buyers, this reinforces the importance of alignment between IT, finance, operations, and leadership.
Expectation One: Multifactor Authentication Is No Longer Optional
MFA remains one of the most important underwriting controls. In 2026, carriers expect it to be deployed consistently across remote access, email, privileged accounts, and cloud environments.
Partial implementation often raises more questions than none at all. Carriers want to see that MFA is enforced, monitored, and reviewed regularly rather than implemented once and forgotten.
Expectation Two: Backup and Recovery Plans Must Be Tested
Having backups is not enough. Carriers increasingly want evidence that backups are segmented, protected from ransomware, and tested.
A common underwriting concern is whether a business could realistically restore operations after an incident without paying a ransom. Buyers who can demonstrate tested recovery procedures tend to see better terms and fewer coverage restrictions.
Expectation Three: Vendor Risk Is Now Part of Your Risk
Third-party relationships have become one of the most common entry points for cyber incidents. In 2026, carriers expect buyers to understand where vendors have access to systems, data, or credentials.
This does not require complex vendor scoring models. What carriers want to see is awareness and control. Knowing who has access, how that access is managed, and how it can be revoked matters more than lengthy policies that are never enforced.
Expectation Four: Employee Behavior Still Drives Losses
Despite advances in technology, employee behavior remains a leading cause of cyber incidents. Phishing, social engineering, and credential misuse continue to drive claims.
Carriers are increasingly interested in whether training is consistent, refreshed, and relevant. Programs that are interactive and reinforced throughout the year tend to be viewed more favorably than annual check-the-box exercises.
Expectation Five: Incident Response Planning Is a Business Function
Carriers want to know whether a company understands what happens after an incident. This includes who makes decisions, who contacts vendors or counsel, and how communications are handled.
In 2026, an incident response plan is viewed as a business continuity issue, not just an IT document. Companies that treat it that way are often better positioned during underwriting and claims.
What This Means for Cyber Buyers in 2026
The cyber insurance market is still competitive, but it rewards preparation. Buyers who invest in a small number of meaningful controls often see better outcomes than those who attempt to do everything without consistency.
From a leadership perspective, the most important takeaway is this. Cyber insurance works best when it reflects how the business actually operates. When controls, documentation, and decision-making are aligned, underwriting becomes more efficient and coverage more predictable.
Preparing for the Next Renewal Cycle
As cyber risks continue to evolve, early preparation remains the most effective strategy. Reviewing controls, testing plans, and aligning internal teams well before renewal can reduce friction and create more options in the market.
If you would like to discuss how carriers may view your cyber program in 2026 or explore ways to strengthen your position, you can request a review or connect with a Liberty advisor.
Request a Cyber Program Review: https://libertycompany.com/contact/
