StarkNEX
From what started as a project in high school, StarkNEX has transformed into an agile cyber security company that works against cyber security issues, like insider threats. We are building innovative products to address prevalent and pervasive cyber risks, so we can protect and strongarm organisations of any size.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
N/A | Support Program | ||
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
| USD | 2022 |
|---|---|
| Revenues | 0000 |
| EBITDA | 0000 |
| Profit | 0000 |
| EV | 0000 |
| EV / revenue | 00.0x |
| EV / EBITDA | 00.0x |
| R&D budget | 0000 |
Source: Dealroom estimates
Related Content
Starknex is an Australian cybersecurity firm headquartered in Adelaide, specializing in offensive security services. The company was established in 2017 by Usayd Marikar, who serves as the Founder and Director. Marikar's journey into cybersecurity began in high school, where he initially created a VPN service with friends to bypass school network filters. A pivotal moment in his youth involved hacking a major corporation, which drew the attention of the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), ultimately steering him towards ethical hacking and the formation of Starknex.
The firm operates with a focus on leveraging offensive tactics to strengthen clients' defensive postures. Its core service offerings include red teaming, which simulates real-world attack scenarios, and comprehensive penetration testing for networks, applications, and systems. Starknex also provides security transformation services, which encompass developing customized security strategies, conducting risk assessments, and offering expert consulting. The company serves a diverse client base that includes state and federal government agencies, as well as private sector organizations in industries such as healthcare, finance, transport, and defense. Revenue is generated through these specialized security services, including private briefings and tailored training for government bodies.
Initially founded as a security research group and VPN service, Starknex shifted its focus in 2021 toward building a security platform to address insider threats before pivoting back to its offensive security roots in 2022. Through its research, the company engineers covert offensive hardware and software, developing custom tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) that mimic advanced persistent threats (APTs). The firm is based at the University of South Australia's Innovation & Collaboration Centre and is supported by entities like the Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre. Starknex has been appointed to several government procurement panels, underscoring its vetted and compliant status.
Keywords: offensive security, red teaming, penetration testing, cybersecurity consulting, ethical hacking, vulnerability assessment, threat simulation, security strategy, government cybersecurity, Adelaide