Bolster's approach complements existing email security products by shutting down phishing operations at their source. This is particularly valuable when malicious links pass through email filters and are clicked on by users. Microsoft, a major international brand that operates numerous services triggering emails to users, has shown interest in working with Bolster in the future. The tech giant is also a provider of cloud and managed software services to numerous businesses, making it a potential link to a large market of would-be customers.
Key takeaways:
- An AI startup called Bolster, which operates a free phish-checking portal and provides brand and URL checking services, has raised $14 million in funding to expand its work.
- Microsoft’s venture fund M12 led the round, with participation from Thomvest Ventures, Crosslink Capital, Liberty Global Ventures, Cheyenne Ventures, Cervin Ventures, and Transform Capital.
- Bolster uses machine learning algorithms and AI techniques to track the internet and detect scam operations, shutting them down at their root by way of automated takedowns.
- While Microsoft does not yet work directly with Bolster, the investment is seen as a signal of future collaboration, with Microsoft's interest lying in its own brand protection, its role as a service provider to numerous businesses, and its move into incorporating more AI into its business.