Exploring the Consolidation of Cybersecurity: A Breakdown of 40 M&A Deals in August 2023

Armor acquires Quantum Security:

US-based cloud security firm Armor has acquired Singapore-based Quantum Security, a company specializing in cloud automation and services. This acquisition allows Armor to enhance its cloud security and IT risk capabilities.

Bechtle acquires Sastema:

German IT giant Bechtle has acquired Germany-based identity and access management (IAM) firm Sastema. This acquisition enables Bechtle to launch a new IAM Competence Center, with Sastema’s managing director Sven Almoril leading the initiative.

Check Point acquires Perimeter 81:

Network security giant Check Point Software has agreed to acquire Perimeter 81, a provider of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solutions, for approximately $490 million. This acquisition bolsters Check Point’s capabilities in the SASE and ZTNA space.

Deloitte acquires ParaFlare:

Deloitte Australia has acquired ParaFlare, an Australian Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solutions provider. The integration of ParaFlare’s capabilities allows Deloitte to offer enhanced cyber defense services, including threat detection, intelligence, incident response, recovery, and remediation.

ManTech acquires Definitive Logic:

Defense firm ManTech has acquired tech consulting and solutions provider Definitive Logic. This acquisition expands ManTech’s capabilities, particularly in the area of cybersecurity, allowing the company to better serve the US government.

Partner One acquires Fidelis Cybersecurity:

Enterprise software company Partner One has acquired Fidelis Cybersecurity, a provider of XDR (Extended Detection and Response) and cloud-native application protection solutions. Partner One will incorporate Fidelis Cybersecurity‘s assets into its existing product portfolio, strengthening its cybersecurity offerings.

Prembly acquires Tunnel:

Compliance and anti-fraud solutions provider Prembly has acquired Tunnel, a Nigerian data sharing company. This acquisition enables Prembly to enhance its security suite and expand its financial services.

Protect AI acquires Huntr:

Artificial intelligence and machine learning security company Protect AI has acquired Huntr, a bug bounty platform. Protect AI aims to launch the first bug bounty platform focused on AI/ML open source software and systems, ensuring their security and stability.

Rubrik acquires Laminar:

Data security firm Rubrik has acquired Laminar, a data security posture management (DSPM) platform. The terms of the deal range from $100 million to $250 million. By acquiring Laminar, Rubrik expands its capabilities in managing and securing data.

SIG acquires Triaxiom Security:

Higher education IT consulting firm Strata Information Group (SIG) has acquired Triaxiom Security, a cybersecurity company specializing in penetration testing, compliance auditing, and strategic security services. This acquisition paves the way for the launch of SIG Cyber, a cybersecurity consulting practice focusing on the higher education sector.

Sentar acquires Waterfront Technical Services:

Cybersecurity and analytics solutions provider Sentar has acquired Waterfront Technical Services, a company providing IT services and support to NASA’s spaceflight missions. This acquisition supports Sentar’s expansion strategy, particularly in the aerospace and defense industry.

T-Rex acquires Cyber Cloud Technologies:

T-Rex Solutions, a provider of cybersecurity and other IT services to US government agencies, has acquired Cyber Cloud Technologies. This acquisition enhances T-Rex’s growth and capabilities in serving the federal sector.

We Hack Purple merges with Semgrep:

Application security company Semgrep has merged with We Hack Purple, a company offering training and resources for developers and security experts. The merged entity aims to become a formidable player in the application security space.

Zurich Holding Company of America acquires SpearTip:

Insurance group Zurich Holding Company of America has acquired SpearTip, a cyber counterintelligence firm specializing in incident response, managed detection and response (MDR), and risk management. This acquisition expands Zurich’s cyber team and enhances its risk mitigation services.

Zyston acquires Complyify:

MSSP Zyston has acquired Complyify, a company providing AI-driven cybersecurity risk and compliance management solutions. Complyify’s AI expertise will be integrated into Zyston’s cybersecurity offerings, strengthening the company’s ability to assist organizations in managing their cybersecurity risks.

Regularly Update Software and Systems:

Keep all software and systems up to date with the latest patches and security updates to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Implement Strong Authentication Measures:

Utilize multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to accounts and systems.

Train Employees on Cybersecurity Best Practices:

Educate employees on the importance of cybersecurity and provide training on topics such as recognizing phishing emails, creating strong passwords, and avoiding suspicious websites or downloads.

Backup Data Regularly:

Regularly backup important data and ensure that backups are stored securely offsite or in the cloud. This will help mitigate the impact of a potential ransomware attack or data breach.

Monitor for Suspicious Activity:

Implement robust monitoring systems to detect and respond to any suspicious activity or potential security breaches in real time.

Partner with Trusted Cybersecurity Vendors:

Engage with reputable cybersecurity vendors who can provide expert guidance, solutions, and support to help protect your organization’s digital assets.

Conclusion:

The surge in M&A deals within the cybersecurity industry reflects the increasing complexity and evolving nature of cyber threats. As organizations face new challenges in securing their digital assets, consolidation through acquisitions allows companies to enhance their capabilities and deliver comprehensive cybersecurity solutions. However, maintaining strong cybersecurity practices, including regular updates, employee training, and proactive monitoring, remains crucial for businesses and individuals to protect against cyber threats in today’s digital world.