Cellebrite to Acquire Corellium for $170M - Mobile Device Security News

Cellebrite Acquires Corellium for $170 Million

Cellebrite, a leading provider of digital forensic solutions, has announced the acquisition of Corellium, a mobile testing startup. The transaction is valued at $170 million in cash, alongside an additional $20 million converted into equity upon completion of the deal.

Strengthening Vulnerability Research

Based in Israel, Cellebrite stated that this acquisition will significantly enhance its capabilities in identifying mobile vulnerabilities and exploits. A substantial portion of Cellebrite’s technology depends on leveraging previously unknown weaknesses, including zero-day exploits, to gain access to encrypted data on mobile devices.

Corellium's Role in Mobile Security Testing

Corellium specializes in offering customers virtualized Android and iOS devices accessible through the cloud. These virtual devices are utilized for application and security testing purposes. It’s worth noting that Apple previously attempted legal action to prevent Corellium from offering its services.

Regulatory Review and Closing Timeline

According to a Cellebrite spokesperson, the acquisition is anticipated to be finalized later this year. However, the completion of the deal is contingent upon a review by CFIUS, the U.S. government committee responsible for assessing the national security implications of corporate transactions.

This review process is standard for deals that could potentially impact national security interests.

Key Benefits of the Acquisition

• Enhanced identification of mobile security flaws.
• Improved capabilities in exploiting vulnerabilities for forensic purposes.
• Expanded access to virtualized mobile testing environments.
• Strengthened position in the digital forensics market.

The integration of Corellium’s technology is expected to bolster Cellebrite’s offerings and further solidify its position as a key player in the digital forensics industry.