Global telecommunications giant BlackBerry has bought out a Worcestershire cyber security specialist.
Kidderminster-based consultancy Encription provides forensic services, training and certification for companies wishing to demonstrate they have implemented security controls to manage their own cyber risk.
BlackBerry said the undisclosed deal was in line with its plans to launch a cyber security services practice which addressed a "massive market for security consulting", estimated to be worth around £11.8 billion.
Writing on the company's blog, chief operating officer Marty Beard said: "We are constantly working to do more for our enterprise customers, especially when it comes to securing their increasingly digital and interconnected mobile world.
"Cyber threats are pervasive in today's increasingly interconnected, mobile and cloud-enabled environment.
"Encription will be an impactful addition to our consulting practice as they bring years of deep experience in cyber security consulting.
"Among other things, Encription specializes in penetration testing - which means they can mimic the techniques of malicious hackers and take those learnings to educate and mitigate the cyber risks posed by criminal hackers."
Brierley Hill-based law firm Higgs & Sons advised Encription's shareholders on the buyout.
Jamie Partington, an associate in the firm's corporate department who specialises in working with tech companies, said: "Everyone has worked really hard over the last couple of months to deliver this project against a tight time-frame and we were delighted to get it over the line for the shareholders.
"Negotiations bridged England, Canada, Dublin and New York - and the successful and swift completion was satisfying for everyone involved."
Omerod Rutter provided financial and taxation advice on the disposal.
