Essential Compliance Strategies for Businesses in 2025 and Beyond

In 2025, enforcement actions have made it clear that businesses must adopt strong compliance strategies to avoid costly penalties and reputational damage. Recent cases, such as the high-profile Disney enforcement, reveal how gaps in data governance and vendor management can lead to serious violations. Companies need to build comprehensive frameworks that not only meet regulatory demands but also embed compliance into their culture. This post outlines practical steps businesses can take to strengthen their compliance efforts and prepare for the evolving regulatory landscape.

Data classification dashboard showing content labels

Implementing Robust Data Governance

Data governance is the foundation of compliance. It involves managing data quality, security, and privacy in ways that meet legal requirements and protect users. The Disney case highlighted the risks of improper content labeling, especially for child-directed material. To avoid similar pitfalls, companies should focus on three key areas:

• Data Classification Systems

Develop clear rules for labeling data based on sensitivity and regulatory requirements. For example, content aimed at children must be distinctly marked to comply with child protection laws. This helps ensure that the right controls and restrictions apply.

• Consent Mechanisms

Review cookie banners and consent platforms to guarantee transparency. Users should find it equally easy to accept or reject tracking cookies. This balance builds trust and meets privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA.

• Age Assurance Technologies

Implement technical solutions to verify user age where necessary. Regulators increasingly expect companies to use reliable methods to prevent children from accessing inappropriate content or services. Age verification tools can reduce compliance risks and protect vulnerable users.

Regular compliance audits focusing on these areas help identify weaknesses before regulators do. Audits should test whether classification systems are accurate, consent flows are user-friendly, and age checks are effective.

Strengthening Vendor and Partner Management

Many compliance failures in 2025 involved third parties. The Disney enforcement case showed how platform policies, such as YouTube’s content designation system, create obligations for content creators and partners. Businesses must manage these relationships carefully to avoid shared liability.

• Maintain Contractual Controls

Contracts with vendors and partners should include clear data protection requirements. Indemnification clauses can protect your company if a partner fails to comply. Specify responsibilities for data handling and security measures.

• Conduct Regular Monitoring

Compliance is not a one-time check. Establish ongoing processes to verify that partners meet standards throughout the relationship. This might include periodic audits, reporting requirements, or automated compliance checks.

• Establish Clear Accountability

When multiple parties handle data, define who is responsible for each compliance aspect. Clear accountability prevents gaps and confusion, ensuring everyone understands their role in protecting data and following regulations.

By actively managing vendor compliance, companies reduce risks and build stronger, more trustworthy partnerships.

Building a Culture of Compliance

Technical measures alone do not guarantee compliance. The 2025 enforcement trends show that organizations must embed compliance into their culture. The Disney case demonstrated how even large, experienced companies can face issues when compliance is not part of everyday business.

• Executive Engagement

Senior leaders and board members should actively oversee compliance programs. Their involvement signals the importance of compliance and ensures adequate resources and attention.

• Employee Training and Awareness

Regular training helps staff understand compliance requirements and their role in meeting them. Awareness campaigns can reinforce key policies and encourage ethical behavior.

• Clear Policies and Procedures

Documented guidelines provide a roadmap for employees. Procedures should be easy to follow and updated regularly to reflect changing regulations.

• Open Communication Channels

Encourage employees to report concerns or potential violations without fear of retaliation. A transparent environment helps catch issues early.

A strong compliance culture reduces risks and supports long-term business success.

Preparing for the Future

Regulatory environments will continue to evolve, with increasing focus on data privacy, child protection, and third-party accountability. Businesses that invest in solid data governance, vendor management, and a compliance culture will be better positioned to adapt and thrive.

Start by assessing your current compliance framework. Identify gaps in data classification, consent processes, and age verification. Review contracts and monitoring practices for partners. Engage leadership and train your teams regularly.

Taking these steps now will help your business avoid enforcement actions and build trust with customers and regulators alike.