A new force in data loss prevention (DLP) is stepping into the spotlight. MIND™, a Seattle-based startup dedicated to protecting sensitive information for organizations, has emerged from stealth, revealing a breakthrough platform designed to address the increasingly complex data security challenges posed by the rise of generative AI applications. Backed by an $11 million seed round led by YL Ventures and with support from top cybersecurity leaders, MIND aims to redefine how organizations secure data in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

A Surge in Data Complexity: The Need for Intelligent Data Security Solutions

With digital transformation accelerating and AI-driven applications like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot reshaping the way businesses operate, the quantity of data is skyrocketing. This growing data sprawl introduces new vulnerabilities, especially for sensitive information now being shared across diverse applications, storage environments, and devices. According to Gartner, approximately 90% of newly generated enterprise data is unstructured, outpacing structured data by a threefold growth rate. This trend introduces unique challenges in protecting data within files containing sensitive material, such as credit card information, credentials, encryption keys, and intellectual property.

"With billions of records leaked each year, it’s clear that current data loss prevention tools have significant gaps, especially when it comes to managing the unstructured data dominating today's digital ecosystem," explained Eran Barak, Co-Founder and CEO of MIND. “Our platform provides a streamlined, automated approach to data security, allowing companies to focus on innovation without compromising data integrity.”

The MIND Solution: A Comprehensive Approach to Data Protection

MIND is pioneering a holistic DLP solution that secures data at every stage—whether it’s at rest, in motion, or actively in use. The platform leverages AI-driven automation to autonomously monitor, classify, and secure sensitive information across a wide array of sources, including endpoints, on-premises systems, SaaS applications, and even popular generative AI tools. At the core of MIND’s technology is MIND AI, an advanced AI engine powered by hundreds of proprietary algorithms, designed to operate autonomously while minimizing the need for hands-on management.

MIND AI uses context-aware algorithms to identify and prioritize risks, allowing businesses to immediately detect and prevent data leaks, while simultaneously reducing the noise from false positives. By automating these processes, MIND enables organizations to cut down on the personnel and resources typically required to implement a successful DLP program. “Our platform empowers security and IT teams to secure sensitive data without overextending their resources, thereby promoting greater operational efficiency,” Barak noted.

A Leadership Team with Deep Cybersecurity Experience

MIND’s founding team comprises seasoned cybersecurity experts with extensive experience and a track record of success in building companies and products focused on data protection. CEO Eran Barak previously co-founded Hexadite, a cybersecurity company later acquired by Microsoft. The team also includes Co-Founder and CTO Itai Schwartz, known for his work at security automation startup Torq and asset management company Axonius, and Co-Founder and VP of R&D Hod Bin Noon, a former leader at vulnerability detection firm Dazz. The co-founders’ combined expertise is bolstered by their time spent in Israel's Military Intelligence Unit 8200, known for producing top talent in cyber defense.

“MIND’s platform is addressing a major gap in data security solutions,” stated Justin Somaini, Partner at YL Ventures, who has seen firsthand the evolving challenges organizations face as data grows in both volume and complexity. “With their vision and innovative technology, MIND is set to become a leader in the DLP space, addressing current and emerging threats.”

Addressing the Market's Evolving Needs in the Age of AI

As businesses of all sizes continue to embrace cloud-based solutions and generative AI platforms, the potential for accidental data exposure increases, particularly for unstructured data that can be difficult to monitor and control. MIND’s platform addresses these risks by automatically classifying sensitive data and applying sophisticated risk assessments to determine potential vulnerabilities. This innovation is especially relevant in an era where the data universe is expected to expand more than tenfold by 2030, from the 64.2 zettabytes recorded in 2020.

“The market urgently needs solutions that can handle the growing sources of sensitive data across business environments,” said Ryan Fritts, CIO at Everon and former CISO at ADT. “With MIND’s DLP technology, organizations can achieve robust data security without hindering business growth. The platform’s efficiency in managing resources is invaluable to companies looking to stay agile and resilient against data breaches.”

A New Standard in DLP and Insider Risk Management

MIND’s platform goes beyond traditional DLP systems, offering organizations an insider risk management (IRM) tool that operates continuously to monitor billions of data events in real time. This 24/7 vigilance helps companies avoid leaks and maintain compliance standards with ease. By integrating advanced AI, MIND’s approach promises to not only reduce the occurrence of false positives but also to offer businesses a true autopilot mode for DLP, thereby minimizing the resources needed to achieve effective security.

In an era where a single data breach can have far-reaching repercussions, MIND’s platform serves as a valuable tool for maintaining brand reputation and customer trust. As more organizations seek out agile, adaptable solutions to manage data security, MIND’s emergence marks a pivotal moment in the cybersecurity landscape.

With the backing of investors and cybersecurity experts, MIND is setting a new standard for data security, providing organizations with a powerful, automated solution to protect sensitive information as digital ecosystems expand. As companies around the world adapt to the opportunities and risks posed by AI, MIND’s platform promises to deliver unparalleled protection for the most critical digital assets. Based in Seattle, MIND is positioning itself to be an industry leader in DLP, ready to support businesses of all sizes in securing their future.