Cybersecurity pioneer Amit Yoran passes away at 54
Cybersecurity pioneer Amit Yoran passes away at 54
The Tenable CEO and RSA veteran previously founded Riptech and NetWitness.
Amit Yoran, a prominent figure in the American cyber industry, passed away on Friday after a battle with cancer. He was 54. Yoran was the CEO and founder of several influential companies in the field. He founded NetWitness, which was acquired by RSA, and Riptech, a pioneer in helping organizations address advanced cyber threats. Until last month, he served as CEO of Tenable, a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions. Prior to that, he was president of RSA.
Born in November 1970 in the United States to Israeli parents who emigrated in the 1960s, Yoran was a well-known figure in the Israeli-American community. He studied in the United States Military Academy and received a M.S. in computer security from George Washington University.
Before stepping down from his role at Tenable in December to focus on his health, Yoran wrote to the company's employees:
"While I am away over the next couple of months, the Board has appointed Steve Vintz and Mark Thurmond as Co-CEOs. They will step in to guide the organization, supported by the rest of our exceptional leadership team. I have complete trust in their ability—and yours—to keep our mission and transformation moving forward with the same passion and commitment to our customers. We have much to do and there is no time to waste," Yoran wrote. "As I take a brief pause to prioritize my health, I will stay as connected as I can while giving myself the space to heal fully.
"I am deeply grateful for each of you, not only for the dedication you bring to your work but for the sense of community we’ve built together."
Tenable, a NASDAQ-listed cybersecurity leader, has made several acquisitions in Israel, including cyber companies Ermetic and Eureka.
