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Overview of Hyperproof's 2026 IT Risk and Compliance Benchmark Report

On February 12, 2026, Hyperproof, renowned for its innovative Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) platform, publicly launched its 2026 IT Risk and Compliance Benchmark Report. This significant seventh annual study sheds light on how various organizations navigate risk and compliance management in an era marked by rapid technological advancements and regulatory changes. The findings are derived from an extensive survey involving over 1,000 professionals in IT, security, risk, and compliance sectors.

The survey reveals a notable transformation in the approach to GRC, particularly emphasizing the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). AI's role in operationalizing GRC workflows is no longer seen as a novelty but as a fundamental necessity to streamline processes and enhance efficiency.

Key Findings from the Report

1. Mainstream AI Adoption

A staggering 97% of respondents confirmed that they employ AI technologies to optimize their GRC activities. The report highlights the importance of embedding AI within a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform. Such integration allows AI to improve intelligence applied to controls, evidence, and assessments, moving beyond the traditional framework where AI was utilized as a standalone tool.

2. Risks of Reactive Management

The study identifies a worrying trend where organizations managing risks in an ad-hoc manner see dramatically higher breach rates. In 2025, nearly 50% of those who approached risk management reactively reported breaches, compared to just 27% from those adopting an integrated, automated risk management strategy. This statistic underscores the critical need for proactive risk measures to effectively mitigate threats.

3. Increased Operational Burden

The aftermath of security breaches is profound, as illustrated by the fact that 58% of organizations that reported incidents in 2025 expect a heightened burden in IT risk management and compliance for 2026. This increase indicates that organizations will need to allocate more resources to recover from incidents, diverting attention from strategic priorities.

4. Adoption of Common Controls Frameworks

A striking 56% of participating organizations indicated they now utilize a common controls framework (CCF) to streamline their GRC operations. This shift points toward an industry-wide movement towards repeatable and scalable control strategies, a necessary adaptation in today’s fast-paced regulatory landscape.

5. Centralization of GRC Teams

The report highlights that more organizations are now centralizing their GRC activities, with 86% of respondents affirming they have dedicated teams overseeing this aspect. This centralization helps standardize processes and improves collaboration across different units within organizations, which were previously managed in silos.

Expert Insights

Alam Ali, Senior Vice President of Product at Hyperproof, noted, "AI has quickly moved from 'interesting' to 'essential' for GRC teams, but how you deploy it matters." He emphasized the greatest advantages seen when AI is solidly integrated into the foundation of existing systems.

The benchmark report not only provides insights but also practical steps organizations can take to implement these findings effectively. For instance, adopting standardized control strategies, establishing consistent evidence practices, and making AI and automation integral to daily operations are among the actionable recommendations offered.

Accessing the Full Report

For those interested in a comprehensive overview of the findings, the complete 2026 IT Risk and Compliance Benchmark Report can be accessed through Hyperproof’s website.

About Hyperproof

Hyperproof has established itself as a leading AI-driven GRC platform that equips IT, security, and compliance teams with the tools necessary to manage controls efficiently, integrate risk operations, and foster customer trust. Businesses like Reddit, Fortinet, and Thales recognize Hyperproof as a trusted partner for scaling compliance efforts effectively while automating various controls and enhancing operational integrity. For more information about Hyperproof, visit here.