The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) released the initial public draft of the Privacy Framework 1.1 on April 14th, 2025. This marks an important update to its widely used voluntary tool for managing privacy risks. The Framework is designed to help organizations better identify, assess, and manage privacy risks. The new version aligns more closely with NIST’s Cybersecurity Framework 2.0, integrates privacy risk management for artificial intelligence (AI), and streamlines content for improved usability.
NIST welcomes stakeholder feedback on the Privacy Framework 1.1 IPD by June 13, 2025. You can find more resources about this NIST public draft and how to submit comments here: https://csrc.nist.gov/pubs/cswp/40/nist-privacy-framework-11/ipd
Integrating Privacy into GRC
Data privacy is a critical pillar of a comprehensive Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) program, ensuring that organizations not only comply with legal obligations but also proactively manage risks to individual rights and corporate reputation.
Key Changes in Privacy Framework
The NIST Privacy Framework 1.1 introduces several notable updates:- Realignment with NIST Cybersecurity Framework 2.0: The structure and terminology have been updated to enhance compatibility with the Cybersecurity Framework 2.0. This makes it easier for organizations to integrate privacy and cybersecurity risk management efforts.
- New Focus on AI and Privacy Risk: A dedicated section addresses privacy risks unique to artificial intelligence systems has been added. This highlights challenges such as data inference attacks, model bias, and unauthorized data reconstruction.
- Core Restructuring: Categories and subcategories within the Framework Core have been refined, with some relocated or withdrawn, to improve clarity and maintain alignment with evolving privacy practices.
- Streamlining and Relocation of Content: Certain materials, such as detailed guidance on using the Framework, have been moved to the NIST Privacy Framework website to enhance interactive engagement and keep the PDF focused on core concepts.
What This Means for Organizations
The NIST Privacy Framework 1.1 offers an adaptable, technology-neutral foundation for managing privacy risks across organizations. The update promotes a risk-based approach to privacy. It strengthens integration of privacy into enterprise risk management. It also emphasizes accountability and transparency. The alignment with CSF 2.0 supports a unified strategy for managing both privacy and cybersecurity risks.
As privacy regulations and public scrutiny grow, organizations should review their privacy profiles and risk practices. They should identify gaps against the updated Framework. Organizations using artificial intelligence must focus on new AI privacy guidance. This includes recommendations for roles, responsibilities, and ongoing monitoring.
GrowthPoint helps your organization align its privacy program with the latest NIST Privacy Framework. As your trusted fractional CISO partner, we build privacy risk management strategies that achieve compliance and build trust. Contact us to learn how we support your privacy and security goals..