Cybernomics Radio
Welcome to Cybernomics, the podcast where we break down the latest enterprise innovations and challenges shaping the Information Security industry. Whether it’s AI, cloud computing, or digital transformation, we dive deep into the forces driving businesses forward.
Join host Josh Bruyning as he engages with industry experts and technology leaders to explore how businesses are leveraging technology for growth. From cutting-edge advancements to the economic impact of tech decisions, Cybernomics delivers insights that keep you ahead of the curve.
Tune in for expert analysis, compelling discussions, and a front-row seat to the future of Information Security.
Cybernomics Radio
Cyber Acquisitions #1 - Armis x OTORIO, ForcePoint x GetVisibility, CyberGuru x Mantra SAS - Niche is King (Right Now)
The cybersecurity industry is undergoing rapid consolidation as established companies expand their capabilities through strategic acquisitions rather than internal development. Three major acquisitions in March 2025 highlight key trends: the growing importance of securing operational technology, the central role of AI in data security, and the continued significance of the human element in cybersecurity defense.
• Armis acquired Otorio on March 6, 2025, enhancing its ability to secure air-gapped industrial networks in energy, manufacturing, and utilities sectors
• The acquisition integrates Otorio's OT security expertise into Armis' Centrix platform, providing comprehensive visibility across IT and OT environments
• Forcepoint's acquisition of GetVisibility on March 11 strengthens its AI-driven data discovery and classification capabilities
• GetVisibility's DSPM solutions help protect sensitive data across endpoints, cloud applications, and generative AI platforms
• Italian provider CyberGuru acquired French startup Mantra SAS on March 13, combining their security awareness training platforms
• The merged entity will serve over 1,000 organizations globally, reaching approximately 1.5 million users
• These acquisitions reflect an industry-wide shift toward more integrated, comprehensive security solutions
• Companies are positioning themselves strategically to address multiple aspects of the modern threat landscape
Tune into Cybernomics with me, Josh Bruning, every Wednesday morning at 7 Eastern for in-depth conversations about the hidden costs of cybersecurity.
The cybersecurity industry experienced significant consolidation in March 2025, with three strategic acquisitions, highlighting the sector's rapid evolution and focus on comprehensive security solutions. These deals demonstrate how established companies are expanding their capabilities through targeted acquisitions rather than internal development, allowing them to quickly adapt to emerging threats and changing market demands. Armis, a cybersecurity unicorn known for its cyber exposure management platform, made its third acquisition in less than a year by purchasing Otorio on March 6, 2025. Otorio, founded in 2018, specializes in operational technology, or OT, and cyber-physical system security. Through its Titan platform. This strategic move allows Armis to integrate Otorio's technology into its Centrix platform, specifically addressing the critical need for securing air-gapped industry networks in sectors like energy, manufacturing and utilities. The acquisition strengthens Armis' position in industrial security by providing comprehensive visibility and zero-trust protection across both IT and OT environments, laying important groundwork for an anticipated IPO. Forcepoint's acquisition of GetVisibility on March 11 represents another significant industry move. The multi-million euro deal builds upon the existing partnership between the companies, with GetVisibility's AI-driven data discovery and classification technology already integrated into Forcepoint's platform Based in Cork, Ireland. Getvisibility's expertise in data security, posture management, or DSPM solutions, enhances Forcepoint's ability to protect sensitive data across multiple environments, including endpoints, cloud applications and generative AI platforms. This acquisition transforms data security from a mere compliance requirement into a strategic advantage for enterprise and government customers.
Speaker 1:The third major acquisition came on March 13th, when Italian cybersecurity awareness training provider, CyberGuru acquired French startup Mantra SAS. Cyberguru, which serves over 700 organizations with automated learning platforms, benefits from Mantra's specialized expertise in employee security awareness. They also specialize in phishing simulations and real-time cyber defense training. The combined entity will serve more than 1,000 organizations globally, reaching over 1.5 million users. Mantra's platform, which integrates interactive training with realistic phishing attack simulations, will be incorporated into CyberGuru's existing services. This acquisition not only expands CyberGuru's international presence, particularly in the French market, but also strengthens its leadership team, with the addition of Mantra's co-founders.
Speaker 1:These acquisitions reflect several key industry trends. First, there's growing recognition of the need to secure operational technology and industrial systems, as demonstrated by the Armis-Otorio deal. Second, artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly central to data security and risk management, as shown by Forcepoint's acquisition of GetVisibility. Third, the human element of cybersecurity remains crucial, with CyberGuru's acquisition of Mantra focusing on improving user resilience against phishing and social engineering attacks.
Speaker 1:The timing and nature of these acquisitions suggest an accelerating pace of consolidation in the cybersecurity industry. Companies are strategically positioning themselves to offer more comprehensive security solutions that address multiple aspects of the modern threat landscape. This trend reflects the industry's recognition that effective cybersecurity requires a multifaceted approach combining technological solutions with human awareness and training. As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, this pattern of strategic acquisitions is likely to continue reshaping the competitive landscape of the cybersecurity sector. The flurry of M&A activity in early March 2025 demonstrates how cybersecurity firms are actively acquiring niche players to broaden their capabilities across different security domains, Whether it's securing industrial systems, protecting sensitive data with AI or strengthening the human element of security. These acquisitions underscore the industry's drive to provide more integrated and robust cybersecurity solutions in response to evolving threats. Tune into Cybernomics with me, Josh Bruning, every Wednesday morning at 7 Eastern for in-depth conversations about the hidden costs of cybersecurity. Thanks for listening. Bye.