Utimaco

Utimaco Safeware AG (Utimaco) is a global provider of cybersecurity and compliance solutions, with headquarters in Aachen, Germany, and Campbell, California, USA. Founded in 1983, the company specializes in developing on-premises and cloud-based hardware security modules, key management solutions, data protection, identity management, and data intelligence solutions for regulated critical infrastructures and public warning systems.

Products and Services

Utimaco's product portfolio includes:

• Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)
• Key Management Solutions
• Data Protection
• Identity Management
• Data Intelligence Solutions
• Public Warning Systems

History

Utimaco was established in 1983 to provide hardware-based security appliances and compliance solutions for telecommunications providers.

Acquisition and Divestment

In 2009, Sophos acquired Utimaco Safeware AG, a German IT security company specializing in encryption and data protection solutions. In 2013, Sophos sold the majority of Utimaco to private equity firms BIP Investment Partners and PINOVA Capital as part of a management buyout transaction.

Controversy and Sophos' Response

In 2011, Utimaco faced allegations of supplying Lawful Interception Management Systems (LIMS) to repressive regimes such as Iran and Syria, raising ethical concerns when their products were used by Iranian authorities to detain and torture a university student.^[1] Following the controversy, Sophos ended its relationship with Utimaco.

Separate Paths

After the divestment, Utimaco and Sophos continued to operate as separate entities. Utimaco focused on cybersecurity solutions, including Hardware Security Modules (HSM) and key management, while Sophos remained a player in the broader cybersecurity market.

Since separating from Sophos, Utimaco has undergone several ownership changes. In 2017, it was acquired by EQT Partners,^{[citation needed]} and in 2022, SGT Capital became the majority stakeholder.^{[citation needed]}

Anniversary Milestones

In 2024, Utimaco celebrated the 30th anniversary of its Lawful Interception Management System (LIMS) and marks its 40th anniversary.

External Links

• Official website

References

• https://www.cryptomuseum.com/manuf/utimaco/
• https://www.networkworld.com/article/802300/lan-wan-sophos-concludes-314-million-utimaco-buy.html
• https://utimaco.com/company
• https://utimaco.com/lims-30th-anniversary
• https://utimaco.com/utimaco-40-years-anniversary