Palo Alto Networks in talks to acquire startup Clutch Security
Cybersecurity giant in talks to acquire AI agent security firm Clutch for roughly $500 million.
Palo Alto Network, cybersecurity, CyberArk (Cheng Xin/Getty Images)
Palo Alto Networks is currently in negotiations to acquire Clutch Security, an Israeli startup focused on the protection of AI agents. The potential deal is reportedly valued at approximately $500 million in cash, with additional milestone-based payments included in the terms.
Founded in 2023, Clutch Security specializes in securing non-human identities, such as API keys, passwords, and authentication tokens used by autonomous AI systems. The company has raised more than $20 million from investors including Lightspeed Venture Partners and SignalFire.
The acquisition remains in the discussion phase, and no final agreement has been reached. Palo Alto Networks has declined to comment on the reports of the potential purchase.
If finalized, the acquisition would represent the fifth such deal for Palo Alto Networks in 2026. The move aligns with the company's broader strategy to expand its capabilities in securing the growing niche of agent-based corporate systems.