Proofpoint Expands India Operations Amid Rising AI Security Needs

Proofpoint scales up its Indian R&D and go-to-market presence to meet surging demand for artificial intelligence security and compliance frameworks.

Scaling R&D and Establishing the Hyderabad Centre

The centerpiece of Proofpoint’s regional expansion is the creation of a specialized AI Security Engineering Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Hyderabad. According to company announcements, Proofpoint plans to hire over 200 engineers over the next 12 to 24 months to staff the facility. The centre will focus intensely on next-generation AI security technologies, including AI governance, runtime protection, and security frameworks for applications, enterprise copilots, and autonomous agents—integrating core innovations from its recent acquisition of Acuvity.

This new engineering hub complements Proofpoint’s existing Pune Centre of Excellence—which houses more than 550 extended team members supporting engineering, customer support, and product development—as well as go-to-market hubs in Bengaluru and Delhi.

Addressing DPDPA Compliance and Data Sovereignty

The strategic expansion directly addresses growing corporate concerns regarding data privacy, localisation, and compliance with India's Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA). According to Proofpoint's 2026 threat reports, 99 percent of Indian chief information security officers (CISOs) surveyed reported experiencing a material loss of sensitive data, underscoring the urgency for advanced protection.

To counter these risks, Proofpoint provides a unified data security offering that integrates Data Security Posture Management (DSPM), Enterprise and Adaptive Email Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and Insider Threat Management (ITM). Operating alongside its local data center established in late 2025, these capabilities ensure that Indian enterprises and public sector entities can secure sensitive digital assets while maintaining strict data sovereignty.

Quote Section

"According to officials, Proofpoint is doubling down on India to deliver against specific privacy and sovereignty requirements, invest closer to customers, and expand the country's pivotal role in global AI security strategies."

Why It Matters

For enterprise businesses, financial institutions, and government bodies navigating rapid AI deployment, robust security infrastructure is vital to prevent data leaks and maintain regulatory compliance. Expanding local engineering and support operations ensures faster remediation and tailored defense tools against sophisticated cyber threats.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Company Name: Proofpoint, Inc.

• New R&D Facility: AI Security Engineering Centre of Excellence in Hyderabad.

• Hiring Target: More than 200 specialized engineers over the next 12 to 24 months.

• Core Driver: Surging demand for DPDPA compliance, data sovereignty, and AI risk management.

FAQ Section

Why is Proofpoint expanding its operations in India?

Proofpoint is scaling its footprint to meet surging local demand for AI security, data loss prevention, and compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA).

What is the purpose of the new Hyderabad facility?

The new AI Security Engineering Centre of Excellence will focus on next-generation AI security technologies, including AI governance, runtime protection, and security for copilots and autonomous agents.

How does Proofpoint support data localisation in India?

The company leverages a local data center established in 2025 alongside unified data security tools (DSPM, DLP, and ITM) to ensure sensitive information remains within required regulatory boundaries.

Where can official updates regarding Proofpoint's expansion be tracked?

Official announcements and corporate updates are published regularly on the Proofpoint Newsroom.

Source: Proofpoint Press Releases, ET CIO, SecurityBrief India