A compliance framework is a structured set of guidelines, rules, or standards that organizations follow to ensure they protect sensitive data and meet legal, regulatory, or industry-specific requirements. Examples include NIST, ISO 27001, and HIPAA. These frameworks help organizations identify risks, implement security controls, and demonstrate accountability to customers, regulators, and partners. Adopting a compliance framework supports consistent security practices, reduces the risk of data breaches, and helps organizations avoid legal penalties.