Verizon 2026 DBIR: Vulnerability Exploits Become Leading Initial Access Vector in Data Breaches (infosecurity-magazine.com)

• Vulnerability exploits surpass credential theft as top initial access vector
• 31% of breaches began with software flaw exploitation
• Report based on global incident data analysis

"The Verizon 2026 Data Breach Investigations Report indicates that vulnerability exploits now account for 31% of breach beginnings, overtaking credential theft. This shift highlights the growing risk from unpatched software flaws. The report analyzes millions of incidents globally."