Torq, cybersecurity unicorn, eyes $50m acquisition of THIS AI startup

Cybersecurity unicorn Torq, which likens itself to the "Cursor of security operations," is actively negotiating Boston-based Jit's acquisition, an automatic security assistant, for nearly $50 million, according to someone with knowledge on the subject.

If finalised, the deal aims to blend Torq's comprehensive security command center with Jit's automated solutions.

Together, they are setting sights on "agentic security," where intelligent AI agents function like independent digital security guards, managing online threats without human intervention.

The acquisition discussions are ongoing, and specifics may still evolve. Both firms chose not to comment.

Recently, Torq revealed $140 million in fresh investment, enhancing its valuation to $1.2 billion. Its backers include Evolution Equity Partners, Bessemer Venture Partners, Insight Partners, Notable Capital, Greenfield Partners, and Merlin Ventures.

The discussions happen as cybersecurity firms hurry to embed AI agents into their offerings.

The increasing number of alerts from modern systems overwhelms security teams, leading to the necessity for tools to lower manual tasks and provide immediate responses.

Founded in 2020 by veterans from the Israeli cyber scene, both startups hold prominence.

Boston is home to Jit's headquarters, established by David Melamed and Aviram Shmueli, securing close to $50 million in venture backing from Boldstart Ventures, Insight Partners, and Tiger Global. Shai Horovitz, previously Cybereason's chief revenue officer, took over as CEO in 2023.

Founded by experienced entrepreneurs Ofer Smadari, Leonid Belkind, and Eldad Livni in 2020, Torq's three founders previously led Luminate Security, later acquired by Symantec in 2019.

Recently, Torq embraced the descriptor "the Cursor of Security Operations" to illustrate its move towards Agentic AI.

Much like Cursor code utilises AI to expedite software development, Torq employs autonomous AI agents to support security teams.

Among its clientele are Abnormal Security, Armis, Check Point Security, Chipotle Mexican Grill, and Inditex.

The discussions come in the wake of Google's recent $32 billion blockbusteracquisition of cybersecurity powerhouse Wiz, marking one of the most significant deals in Google's history and the cybersecurity industry.