- Linx, a Tel Aviv-based startup, has emerged from stealth mode with a substantial $33 million in funding, signaling a major advancement in addressing identity management challenges.
- The importance of Linx’s technology is highlighted by the increasing frequency of security breaches linked to identity management.
OUR TAKE
Linx, the Tel Aviv stealthy startup, just pulled off a $33M funding feat. It’s like the cyber world’s new superhero, swooping in to tackle identity management chaos. With founders from Israel’s elite cyber unit and stints at giants like Checkpoint and Microsoft, they’re bringing the heat to a real-life issue: outdated, scattered identity data that’s hackers’ dream fuel. Remember those big breaches where old passwords did the damage? Linx’s AI-powered solution aims to nip that in the bud, keeping only the freshest creds in play. Smart move, Linx, and investors are clearly taking notice.
–Miurio huang, BTW reporter
What happened
Linx, a Tel Aviv-based startup, has emerged from stealth mode with a substantial $33 million in funding, signaling a major advancement in addressing identity management challenges. The funding comes in two phases: a recent $27 million round led by Index Ventures and Cyberstarts, and a prior $6 million round spearheaded by Cyberstarts. Linx’s success in raising capital underscores the growing recognition of its innovative approach to a critical security issue.
Linx was founded by Israel Duanis and Niv Goldenberg, who bring a wealth of experience from their previous roles in cybersecurity and technology. Their journey began during their service in the Israeli military’s elite 8200 cyber unit, where they first met. Building on their extensive industry experience, including stints at Checkpoint Software and Microsoft, they identified a significant gap in the management of identity information—a gap that has become a frequent target for cyber attacks.
The core problem Linx aims to solve is the accumulation of ungoverned identity information within organisations. As businesses utilize numerous applications, the associated identity data can become outdated or orphaned. This unregulated data poses a significant security risk as it can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorised access to systems. Linx’s solution involves leveraging AI and analytics to map and manage these identities, ensuring that only current, active credentials are maintained.
Also read: IX Telecom: Telecom industry fortifies cybersecurity against rising threats
Also read: 5 cybersecurity solutions for IoT physical devices
Why it’s important
The importance of Linx’s technology is highlighted by the increasing frequency of security breaches linked to identity management. High-profile incidents, such as the Equifax and T-Mobile breaches, demonstrate how unregulated credentials can be exploited to compromise sensitive systems. Linx’s approach promises to address these vulnerabilities by providing a comprehensive view of identity data and automating the cleanup of obsolete or unnecessary information.
Linx’s use of AI is particularly notable. While AI has often been touted as a buzzword in tech, Linx’s application is focused and practical. By rapidly analysing identity networks and providing actionable insights, Linx can significantly reduce the time and effort required to manage identity information. Tasks that previously took months can now be accomplished in hours, enhancing security and operational efficiency.
The backing from notable investors, including Cyberstarts’ Gili Raanan, reflects the growing recognition of identity management as a critical security challenge. Raanan’s statement underscores the pressure on identity teams to adapt to evolving threats and outdated solutions. Linx’s technology aims to bridge this gap by offering a modern, efficient solution to a perennial problem.
Linx’s entry into the spotlight with its $33 million funding round marks a significant step in addressing the complexities of identity management. By harnessing AI to streamline and secure identity data, Linx is positioning itself as a key player in the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, where effective identity management is increasingly recognised as a critical component of overall security strategy.
