Google to Expand Cybersecurity Capabilities in $23 Billion Acquisition: WSJ : Technology : iTech Post

Google is reportedly looking to further bolster its cybersecurity capabilities and services with a planned acquisition of tech startup Wiz for $23 billion, The Wall Street Journal reports.

People familiar with the matter say Google’s parent company Alphabet is currently in talks with Wiz to expand its cloud computing services.

Wiz was among the Silicon Valley startups that gained traction in 2020 and 2021 amid the AI ​​boom as more companies sought better cybersecurity for their prized AI models and data centers.

If the deal is approved by antitrust authorities, the acquisition would be Google’s largest since it acquired Mandiant, another cybersecurity company, for $5.4 billion in 2022.

Also read: Microsoft and Google to offer free security services to rural hospitals vulnerable to cyberattacks

Google is catching up to Microsoft and Amazon in cybersecurity capabilities

The planned acquisition of Wiz is now seen as part of Google’s recent efforts to keep up with the competition as Silicon Valley continues to push generative AI.

Unlike Google’s conservative acquisitions, Microsoft and Amazon have struck a number of big deals in recent years as both tech giants expand their AI-integrated services for consumers and enterprises.

Notably, Microsoft has acquired several cybersecurity startups since 2021, such as RiskIQ, Miburo, ReFirm Labs, and Adallom, to conduct cyber threat analysis and research.

Why are tech giants acquiring so many cybersecurity firms?

Tech giants and much of Silicon Valley are acquiring or booking the services of cybersecurity startups not only to protect their AI models but also to defend against the growing number of cyberattacks in the industry.

Major tech companies like Microsoft, Meta, and Google have seen an increase in attempted data breaches in recent months as cybercriminals seek to steal sensitive customer data.

It is worth noting that in addition to individuals and businesses, many tech giants also offer their services to government agencies around the world. If these services are compromised, it poses a threat to national security.

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