Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how organizations operate, but it’s also reshaping one of the most complex areas of IT: compliance. What was once a structured, checklist-driven process is now one that is continuous and fast-moving and that introduces new risks, dependencies and expectations.
As AI adoption accelerates, so does the pressure on both managed service providers (MSPs) and IT professionals to interpret and comply with evolving regulations. Maintaining compliance in real time across dynamic environments is a major challenge.
At the same time, this shift presents a clear opportunity. Organizations that can turn compliance into a strategic capability rather than a burden will be better positioned to build trust, strengthen security and unlock new growth.
The compliance landscape differs greatly by continent
In North America, compliance remains highly fragmented. There’s no single federal AI law in the United States. However, organizations face increasing pressure to align with voluntary frameworks like the NIST AI Risk Management Framework while also meeting required regulations such as HIPAA and PCI. Add in emerging state-level AI legislation, and the result is a complex patchwork that varies by industry and geography.
The key challenge is defining what “compliance” looks like for each environment and then implementing processes to support it continuously.
By contrast, Europe has taken a more structured approach with the EU AI Act. However, that structure brings its own complexity. Organizations must comply with the EU AI Act while also staying in line with existing regulations like GDPR, NIS 2 and DORA.
Across both regions, one reality stands out: Compliance requires ongoing visibility, governance and alignment between security, data protection and AI risk.
From compliance burden to business advantage
The landscape is complex, but it can provide opportunity to lead.
By building capabilities such as AI system inventory, continuous monitoring, governance frameworks and audit-ready reporting, organizations can move beyond reactive compliance and deliver proactive value. Those who succeed will not only reduce risk but also differentiate themselves as trusted entities in an AI-driven world.
Join the webinars: Turn insight into action
Acronis is hosting two webinars focused on practical, real-world strategies for AI compliance.
Security, compliance and AI in 2026: An action plan for MSPs and IT leaders
This session explores the North American landscape, breaking down how frameworks like NIST intersect with regulations such as HIPAA. Gain actionable guidance on managing AI risk, strengthening security controls and supporting compliant AI adoption in a fragmented regulatory environment.
AI is changing security and compliance in the EU: An MSP and IT leader action plan
Focused on Europe, this webinar examines the impact of the EU AI Act, NIS 2 and other evolving directives and regulations. Learn how to navigate overlapping regulations, meet high-risk system requirements and maintain compliance without slowing innovation.
Both sessions are designed to deliver practical insights you can apply immediately.
Register now for the session in North America or Europe and start turning compliance into a competitive advantage.
About Acronis
A Swiss company founded in Singapore in 2003, Acronis has 15 offices worldwide and employees in 60+ countries. Acronis Cyber Platform is available in 26 languages in 150 countries and is used by over 21,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.
