Dutch managed cybersecurity outfit DearBytes snapped up by telecom giant KPN

Beverwijk-based firm to retain branding but fall under KPN's security services arm Managed cybersecurity services firm DearBytes has sold out to Dutch telecom giant KPN. Founded in 2001 and based in Beverwijk in the north of the Netherlands, DearBytes offers products such as data protection and encryption, email and web security, endpoint protection, network security and security management, through vendor partners including Fortinet, FireEye, CyberArk and Intel Security. The deal will see DearBytes' 85 employees join KPN's security services arm, split across its existing office and the telecom giant's headquarters in The Hague. The firm will continue to operate under the DearBytes brand, and CEO Erik Remmelzwaal will retain his position. KPN intends to acquire 100 per cent of DearBytes shares, with the transaction expected to close by the end of the month. Remmelzwaal said: "The Dutch market is increasingly demanding solutions to counter cyber threats such as ransomware and phishing. Malware is even cyber threat number one for the European business market and is a significant risk for business continuity and reputational damage.