BlackBerry acquires U.K. firm that specializes in mimicking, thwarting hackers

WATERLOO, Ont. – BlackBerry has acquired a private U.K.-based firm that specializes in mimicking the techniques of malicious hackers to educate clients and reduce the risk from criminal attacks

Encription Ltd. will be part of a new cybersecurity practice the BlackBerry is setting up to provide consulting services, tools and methods for thwarting criminal attacks in an increasingly interconnected world.

“They will be an impactful addition to our consulting practice as they bring years of deep experience in cybersecurity consulting,” BlackBerry chief operating officer Marty Beard says in a company blog.

“The creation of our Professional Cybersecurity Services practice and acquisition of Encription reinforces our commitment to customers to provide the industry’s most secure mobility solutions to help assess and mitigate risks.”

Encription’s website says it operates from a secure location in Worcestershire in central England, northwest of London. The purchase closed Friday.

BlackBerry (TSX:BB) has long touted the security features of its products, including its smartphones and server software. It has been working to increase revenue from software and services as device sales shrink amid stiff competition.

The company says the new cybersecurity practice will provide expertise to IT professionals, technical assistance, security for automotive and other connected devices as well as threat detection and response.