Collapse of National Security Elites' Cyber Firm Leaves Bitter Wake

Cybersecurity firm IronNet, founded by former NSA director Keith Alexander, has collapsed after failing to deliver on its promise to revolutionize cyber defense. The company, which went public in 2021 with a $3 billion valuation, shut down in September 2023 after running out of money.

IronNet's downfall has left investors and former employees bitter, with some accusing the company of misleading them about its financial health. 'I'm honestly ashamed that I was ever an executive at that company,' said Mark Berly, a former IronNet vice president. He said the company's top leaders cultivated a culture of deceit 'just like Theranos.' Critics point to questionable business practices, subpar products, and associations that potentially exposed the firm to Russian influence. The company's board included high-profile national security figures, which helped attract investments and contracts. However, IronNet struggled to secure major deals and meet revenue projections.

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