M&A presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. When two companies merge, or one acquires another, their IT systems, security postures, and data assets converge. This process can create vulnerabilities and expose both organizations to increased cyber risk if not managed carefully.  

Here's how M&A creates cybersecurity concerns:

• Expanded attack surface: The combined entity has a larger digital footprint, including more systems, applications, and data, increasing potential entry points for attackers.

• Integration complexities: Merging disparate IT systems and security protocols can create gaps and inconsistencies in security controls.  

• Inherited vulnerabilities: The acquired company may have unknown vulnerabilities or security weaknesses that could be exploited.

• Data security and privacy: Integrating sensitive data from both organizations requires careful planning to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent data breaches.  

• Third-party risks: The acquired company may have relationships with third-party vendors that introduce new risks to the combined entity.  

How ThreatNG Helps in M&A Due Diligence and Integration

ThreatNG's comprehensive capabilities make it a valuable solution for managing cybersecurity risks throughout the M&A process:  

1. Due Diligence:

• Identify and assess the target company's attack surface: ThreatNG can provide a complete picture of the target company's digital assets, including domains, subdomains, IP addresses, and cloud services. This helps identify potential vulnerabilities and security gaps before the acquisition.  

• Uncover hidden risks: ThreatNG's deep dive investigation modules, like Sensitive Code Exposure and Dark Web Presence, can uncover hidden risks such as leaked credentials, exposed databases, and mentions on the dark web, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the target's security posture.  

• Evaluate third-party risks: ThreatNG can assess the security posture of the target company's third-party vendors and identify potential supply chain risks. 

2. Post-Merger Integration:

• Secure integration of IT systems: ThreatNG can help identify and prioritize vulnerabilities in the merged IT environment, ensuring a secure integration process.

• Consolidate security policies and controls: ThreatNG's policy management features help standardize security practices across the combined organization.

• Monitor for new threats: Continuous monitoring capabilities allow early detection of the latest threats and vulnerabilities that may arise during integration.  

• Streamline incident response: ThreatNG facilitates collaboration and information sharing between security teams, enabling faster and more effective incident response.

Examples of ThreatNG's Value in M&A

• Domain Intelligence: During due diligence, ThreatNG can analyze the target company's domain infrastructure, identifying potential vulnerabilities like subdomain takeovers, misconfigured DNS records, and exposed development environments. This helps assess the target's security hygiene and possible risks associated with its online presence.  

• Sensitive Code Exposure: ThreatNG can scan code repositories for both organizations, identifying exposed credentials, API keys, and security configurations. This is crucial for preventing data breaches and ensuring the security of intellectual property during and after the merger.  

• Cloud and SaaS Exposure: ThreatNG can identify all cloud services both entities use, highlighting shadow IT and misconfigurations. This allows for a secure and compliant integration of cloud environments, preventing data leaks and unauthorized access.  

• Dark Web Presence: ThreatNG can monitor the dark web for any mentions of both companies, including leaked credentials, compromised data, and potential threats. This proactive approach helps mitigate risks associated with data breaches and reputational damage.  

Complementary Solutions and Services

ThreatNG can integrate with other security solutions to enhance its capabilities in M&A:  

• Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions: To protect sensitive data during integration.

• Identity and Access Management (IAM) solutions: To manage user access and permissions across the merged organization.  

• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems: To centralize security monitoring and incident response.  

By leveraging ThreatNG and complementary solutions, organizations undergoing M&A can effectively manage cybersecurity risks, ensure a smooth integration process, and protect their combined assets.