Vulnerability exploitation has surpassed credential theft as the primary method of breach, according to Verizon's 2026 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR)1. This shift is attributed to the increasing use of artificial intelligence in attacks, which enables faster and more sophisticated exploitation of vulnerabilities. Additionally, delays in patching have exacerbated the problem, allowing attackers to capitalize on known vulnerabilities. The report also notes a continued rise in ransomware and third-party compromises, further complicating the threat landscape. The DBIR's findings highlight the need for organizations to prioritize vulnerability management and accelerate patching to stay ahead of emerging threats. As a result, security practitioners must reevaluate their strategies to focus on proactive vulnerability mitigation, rather than relying solely on credential-based security measures, in order to effectively protect against the evolving threat landscape.