OpenAI has made its first investment in cybersecurity, backing Adaptive Security, a New York-based startup that's raised $43 million in a Series A funding round co-led by OpenAI's startup fund and Andreessen Horowitz [1]. This move marks a significant step for OpenAI in addressing the growing concern of AI-driven cyber threats.
Adaptive Security's platform uses AI to simulate realistic cyberattacks, helping companies train employees to identify and resist these threats. The focus is on social engineering attacks, which trick employees into taking actions that compromise security. These attacks have led to significant financial losses, including a $600 million loss by gaming company Axie Infinity in 2022.
The investment is a strategic move by OpenAI to combat AI-powered cyber threats. As AI tools become more sophisticated, cybercriminals can use them to launch more convincing attacks. OpenAI's investment in Adaptive Security demonstrates its commitment to developing proactive defense mechanisms against these evolving threats.
With this funding, Adaptive Security plans to expand its team and improve its platform to stay ahead in the AI "arms race" against cybercriminals. The startup's innovative approach to cybersecurity training has already gained traction, with over 100 customers on board.
