Cybersecurity guru Amit Yoran, 54, a noted expert in the field who worked in the past for the Homeland Security Department and spoke on the subject on television, has died after a battle with cancer, his company said Saturday.
Yoran, described as a “visionary,” who took a leave of absence last month, passed away Friday, according to a statement issued by Tenable Holdings, where he served as CEO.
“Under his leadership, Tenable achieved significant milestones, and he inspired each one of us with his dedication, passion, and commitment to make a difference,” a statement from Tenable’s Chief People Officer Brigett Paradise read. “Amit leaves behind an incredibl legacy as a visionary, leader, colleague, mentor, brother, father, and friend.”
“We understand that this news may come as a shock and we encourage you to take the time you need to process this difficult loss,” the statement added.
The CEO took a medical leave of absence from the company on December 5, according to CNN.
Yoran served as the CEO of Tenable Holdings since 2016 and, notably, took the company public in 2018.
The 54-year-old also served as the Homeland Security Department’s National Cyber Security Division in 2003, resigning after a year, CNN reports.
Yoran, a United States Military Academy graduate, would appear on cable news as a commentator on cybersecurity matters.
In March 2023, he appeared on CNN to comment on the US government banning TikTok, the outlet reports.
“He touched the lives of so many within and beyond our company and he will be missed,” the statement from Tenable said.
“Please join us in remembering and honoring Amit for the indelible mark he left on all of us.”
Tenable Holdings provides cybersecurity consulting and services for private businesses.