Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning,
Data Loss Prevention (DLP),
Data Security
Startup Achieves $6B Valuation, Aims for Rapid Deployment of Unified DSPM, DLP, and Identity Solutions
A startup led by a former Israeli Military Intelligence leader has successfully raised $540 million to facilitate the secure integration of artificial intelligence within organizations by providing enhanced data control and understanding.
Related Read: Taming Cryptographic Sprawl in a Post-Quantum World
Based in New York, Cyera intends to utilize the Series E funding to enhance data systems’ risks, behaviors, and governance, as explained by Chief Strategy Officer Jason Clark. This financial backing will bolster Cyera’s capabilities in data security posture management and data loss prevention, along with refining on-premises integrations and identity intelligence for AI systems.
“AI isn’t merely a trend; it’s a paradigm shift,” Clark commented to Information Security Media Group. “Our positioning has attracted attention, leading to increased investments that aim to accelerate our growth in talent acquisition and global expansion.”
Founded in 2021, Cyera now employs 722 individuals and has raised over $1.3 billion to date, with its valuation skyrocketing to $6 billion—doubling from a $3 billion valuation following a $300 million Series D round just seven months prior. Co-founder and CEO Yotam Segev, who led Unit 8200’s cyber department in the Israeli military, has established a strong foundation for the company’s rapid ascent.
Investors Commit to Data Security Innovations
Investors such as Georgian, Greenoaks, and Lightspeed Venture Partners are particularly attracted to Cyera’s potential for facilitating AI adoption through comprehensive data visibility and governance. Clark noted a significant interest from these parties in expanding technology integrations based on impressive growth metrics, including a 150% increase in pipeline growth beyond forecasts.
“CISOs are now primarily securing funding that enables AI implementation,” Clark remarked. “This necessitates a thorough understanding of data security to manage how data interacts with AI models effectively.”
Traditionally, cybersecurity has concentrated on threats, vulnerabilities, and identities, often neglecting data—the core asset it aims to protect. Cyera’s platform addresses this gap by enabling precise data identification, classification, and protection, thus responsibly integrating AI into crucial business operations.
Cyera is set to enhance its foundational Data Security Posture Management (DSPM) layer by aiming for 100% classification accuracy and extending its focus from static data to dynamic data motion, following its acquisition of Trail. The goal is to comprehend how both humans and machines interact with data, particularly with the rise of AI agents.
Adapting to Secure On-Prem Data and AI Activities
As enterprises continue to manage significant amounts of sensitive data on-premises, Clark emphasized the urgency of identifying suitable data for AI models housed in cloud environments. Cyera is developing solutions that balance processing demands between on-premises storage and cloud architectures, assisting organizations in managing and migrating data securely.
Cyera is also enhancing its identity capabilities to support autonomous and semi-autonomous AI processes, raising pertinent questions regarding access control and behavioral validation. Clark indicated that the tools being developed will allow firms to assess AI agents’ actions in a similar manner to human oversight.
The company’s analytics engine incorporates natural language processing to allow security teams to query sensitive data access and user behaviors efficiently. This innovative technology harnesses SIEM capabilities alongside AI to provide actionable insights and generate reports tailored for executive review.
“Our capabilities astound our clients,” Clark added. “We’re on the brink of a larger reveal during the upcoming Black Hat conference.”
