MSP HelpSystems has acquired Cobalt Strike, a penetration testing and threat emulation software provider, for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition comes after HelpSystems in December purchased Clearswift, a data loss prevention (DLP) solutions provider.
This is M&A deal Number 138 that MSSP Alert and ChannelE2E have covered so far in 2020. See the complete M&A deal list here.
HelpSystems will integrate Cobalt Strike's cybersecurity offerings into its Core Security business unit, the company said. In doing so, Cobalt Strike enables HelpSystems to expand its infrastructure protection portfolio.
Cobalt Strike provides software for adversary simulations and red team operations. The software allows security operations and incident response teams to conduct security assessments that replicate network adversary tactics and techniques, the company said.
Security operations and incident response teams can use Cobalt Strike's software to identify unpatched vulnerabilities and misconfigurations. In doing so, the software helps these teams correct vulnerabilities and misconfigurations and prepare for cyberattacks, the company stated.
Raxis, Pcysys Secure Funding for Penetration Testing
Meanwhile, investor interest in the penetration market also appears strong. For instance:
- Raxis, an Atlanta-based penetration testing services provider, in January 2020 secured a growth investment from private equity firm RCP Equity. The company is using the investment to scale its U.S. sales and operations and launch a recurring service for channel partners.
- Automated penetration testing platform company Pcysys in November 2019 raised $10 million in a Series A funding round. The company is using the Series A funding to explore ways to extend its global penetration testing market reach.
