Cybersecurity firm Astelia just raised $35 million. Its founder says AI has changed the game — and young people need to befriend it. (www.businessinsider.com)

Astelia, a new AI-powered cybersecurity startup founded by former Israeli intelligence leaders, has raised $35 million in a seed and Series A funding round led by Index Ventures and Team8. The company's innovative approach leverages AI to analyze enterprise systems, pinpointing the small fraction of vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. CEO Alon Noy highlighted the significant shift in the cybersecurity landscape, where AI tools enable attackers to rapidly identify and exploit weaknesses, leaving traditional defensive measures ineffective. By using AI to focus on the most critical vulnerabilities, Astelia offers a proactive defense strategy, which is increasingly vital in a world facing a surge of cyber threats. Noy plans to use the funds to expand Astelia's go-to-market and R&D teams, potentially doubling the workforce by the year's end. Investors acknowledge Astelia's capability to transform vulnerability management from a reactive stance to a more strategic, preemptive approach. Noy advocates for young people to embrace AI, emphasizing that fostering a positive relationship with technology can enhance their adaptability in a rapidly evolving job market. This funding round and Astelia's distinctive focus on AI-driven cybersecurity solutions are essential steps in addressing the growing challenges posed by sophisticated cyberattacks.