Check Point Software Technologies has acquired Avanan, marking the largest transaction in its history, to enhance its email and collaboration security solutions amid rising cyber threats.

Target Company Overview

Avanan is a cybersecurity firm that was founded in 2016, specializing in advanced malware detection and phishing protection. Initially focused on creating a new type of Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Avanan quickly adapted to the increasing demand for security solutions as companies transitioned to cloud environments and adopted collaborative tools. The company leverages its proprietary AI-driven technology to safeguard email systems such as Office 365 and G-Suite, as well as communication platforms like Microsoft Teams and Slack, against various cyber threats including Business Email Compromise (BEC), phishing attacks, malware, data leaks, account takeovers, and shadow IT.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Avanan has enjoyed considerable growth due to the widespread shift to remote work, which heightened cloud adoption and digital transformation initiatives. This shift has also led to an increase in cyberattacks targeting organizations, with phishing being a prevalent method of breach, as noted in the 2020 Verizon Cyber Report. Avanan has successfully expanded its reach, currently protecting over 5,000 customers and managing 2.5 million inboxes, making it a leader in email security according to various industry rankings.

Industry Overview in Israel

The cybersecurity industry in Israel has established itself as a global leader, characterized by a robust ecosystem of startups and innovation-driven companies. With a broad range of firms focusing on different security domains, this sector has thrived on the country’s strong emphasis on techno