OpenAI just made its first cybersecurity investment

Tech Crunch - Apr 3rd, 2025

Generative AI has enhanced the capabilities of hackers, enabling sophisticated social engineering attacks. OpenAI, recognizing this threat, has invested in Adaptive Security, a New York-based startup that simulates AI-generated hacks to train employees. Co-led by OpenAI’s startup fund and Andreessen Horowitz, Adaptive Security’s $43 million Series A aims to fortify defenses against these AI-driven threats. The platform helps companies by spoofing phone calls, texts, and emails, identifying vulnerabilities, and training staff to recognize risks. This investment marks OpenAI’s inaugural foray into cybersecurity.

Adaptive Security, launched in 2023 and led by experienced entrepreneur Brian Long, already serves over 100 customers. The startup will utilize the new funding to expand its engineering team, staying ahead in the AI 'arms race' against cybercriminals. The rise in AI threats has also spurred other cybersecurity investments, such as Cyberhaven and GetReal, underscoring a growing recognition of AI's role in modern cyber attacks. These developments highlight the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures as generative AI tools become more pervasive and sophisticated.

Open Ai Generative Ai Cybersecurity Ai Threats Andreessen Horowitz Social Engineering Adaptive Security Brian Long

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and relevant overview of OpenAI's investment in Adaptive Security, highlighting the growing importance of AI-driven cybersecurity solutions. It effectively communicates the main points with clarity and engages readers interested in technology and security. However, the story could benefit from a more balanced perspective, incorporating diverse viewpoints and expert opinions to enhance its depth and impact. Additionally, greater transparency in explaining the methodologies and potential conflicts of interest would strengthen the article's credibility. Overall, the article offers valuable insights into a critical issue but has room for improvement in several dimensions.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports that OpenAI has invested in a cybersecurity startup, Adaptive Security, which focuses on defending against AI-driven social engineering attacks. The claim that Adaptive Security raised $43 million in a Series A round co-led by OpenAI and Andreessen Horowitz is consistent with the information provided. However, the article could benefit from further verification of specific details, such as the exact nature of AI's impact on cybersecurity and the effectiveness of Adaptive Security's platform. The mention of Brian Long's entrepreneurial background and the advice to delete voicemails as a security measure are plausible but would require additional evidence to confirm their accuracy and relevance.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the positive aspects of OpenAI's investment in Adaptive Security and the potential benefits of their cybersecurity solutions. It does not explore opposing viewpoints or potential criticisms of using AI in cybersecurity. The story could have been more balanced by including perspectives from cybersecurity experts or critics who might question the efficacy or ethical implications of AI-driven security measures.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information. It effectively communicates the main points about OpenAI's investment and Adaptive Security's role in combating AI-driven threats. The language is accessible and straightforward, making it easy for readers to understand the core messages. However, some technical details about AI threats and cybersecurity measures could be explained more thoroughly for a lay audience.

Source quality

The story cites TechCrunch as a primary source, which is generally considered a reliable outlet for technology news. However, the article could be strengthened by incorporating additional sources or expert opinions to provide a more comprehensive view of the topic. The reliance on a single source limits the depth of the analysis and the diversity of viewpoints presented.

Transparency

The article provides some context about the investment and the companies involved but lacks detailed explanations of the methodology behind Adaptive Security's platform and how it effectively combats AI-driven threats. The story could improve transparency by clarifying the basis for its claims and the potential conflicts of interest, particularly regarding OpenAI's motivations for investing in this sector.