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What’s coming in 2025: Future compliance changes you need to know

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As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the regulatory landscape will continue to evolve. From further developments in data protection laws to new standards in cybersecurity, staying on top of these changes is going to be crucial for businesses that want to remain compliant and avoid penalties.

In this post, we’ll cover some of the key compliance trends and changes expected in 2025, helping you prepare for the road ahead.

1. AI regulation: From discussion to action

Throughout 2024, the conversation around AI regulation has been growing louder, and 2025 is shaping up to be the year when those regulations start to take effect. Expect to see new AI-specific regulations that overlap with existing laws like GDPR, particularly in areas like automated decision-making and data privacy.

What to expect:

  • Stricter rules around AI-driven decision-making: Companies using AI for customer profiling, automated hiring, or other processes will likely face new transparency requirements and have to ensure that AI-driven decisions don’t lead to discrimination or data misuse.
  • Data protection with AI: Businesses using AI will need to make sure their models comply with data protection laws, especially when using personal data for training algorithms.

ToolHive Tip: If your business uses AI tools, now is the time to start auditing how these tools interact with personal data. ToolHive can help you track AI tools and ensure they align with upcoming regulations.

2. GDPR evolution: A focus on individual rights

While GDPR itself may not undergo drastic changes, we’re likely to see enhanced enforcement of certain aspects of the regulation, particularly around individual data rights. With more emphasis on user control, businesses will need to ensure that rights such as data portability and the right to be forgotten are easy to exercise.

What to expect:

  • Tighter data retention rules: With an ongoing focus on data minimization, expect further scrutiny on how long personal data is kept and whether businesses are regularly reviewing their data retention practices.
  • Stronger enforcement of individual rights: Businesses will need to ensure they have systems in place to respond quickly to subject access requests, data portability, and erasure requests.

ToolHive Tip: Use ToolHive to automate data retention processes and track requests related to individual rights, ensuring you’re prepared for these enhanced requirements.

3. NIS2 enforcement ramps up

With NIS2 already in play in 2024, 2025 will be all about enforcement. This means businesses in sectors like energy, transport, finance, and digital services will need to be fully compliant with the directive’s strict cybersecurity requirements.

What to expect:

  • Increased incident reporting: If your business falls under NIS2, expect to report any significant cybersecurity incidents within 24 hours. Failing to meet these timelines could result in severe penalties.
  • More accountability for senior management: NIS2 places a lot of responsibility on senior management to ensure compliance. Expect greater pressure on executives to be actively involved in cybersecurity efforts.

ToolHive Tip: Keep your cybersecurity tools and processes in check with ToolHive, ensuring you’re ready for NIS2’s reporting and compliance requirements.

4. Supply chain security: New standards for third-party vendors

2025 will likely bring new standards focused on supply chain security, particularly in relation to third-party vendors. As more companies rely on external partners for key services, ensuring that these vendors are compliant with security and data protection regulations will become critical.

What to expect:

  • Third-party audits: Expect increased emphasis on auditing the security practices of your vendors, with the possibility of new regulations that require businesses to regularly assess third-party risk.
  • Vendor compliance: You’ll need to make sure your vendors are meeting the same standards you’re held to, especially if they handle sensitive data or provide critical services.

ToolHive Tip: Use ToolHive to track and manage your vendor relationships, ensuring third-party compliance is always a priority.

5. International data transfers: A global approach to compliance

The issue of international data transfers has been a hot topic in recent years, and 2025 is expected to bring further developments. As more businesses operate globally, ensuring that data transfers between countries comply with local regulations will be essential.

What to expect:

  • New frameworks for data transfers: With ongoing negotiations between the EU and other regions, expect new frameworks and agreements that dictate how personal data can be transferred internationally.
  • More guidance on data localization: Certain regions may introduce stricter data localization laws, requiring companies to store data within specific geographical boundaries.

ToolHive Tip: Track where your data is stored and transferred with ToolHive, ensuring you comply with the latest international regulations.

Final thoughts: 2025 is all about staying proactive

With new AI regulations, enhanced GDPR enforcement, and the full impact of NIS2 coming into play, 2025 is going to be a year where staying proactive is key. By keeping an eye on these trends and using tools like ToolHive to manage your compliance efforts, you can stay ahead of the curve and avoid any nasty surprises.