GuardWare Launches World-First Solution to Permanently Stop Data Theft
▼ Summary
– GuardWare has launched PROTECT, a world-first encryption software suite that persistently protects sensitive data while in use and allows secure data flow and remote destruction.
– The software addresses the vulnerability of unencrypted unstructured data files, which are at risk from compromised credentials and AI-based phishing in an “Asymmetric Threatscape.”
– PROTECT uses Data-Centric Security to encrypt files during editing, providing quantum-resilient protection and rendering stolen data worthless in a breach.
– The project was developed with UNSW researchers and Defence Trailblazer funding, focusing on minimizing latency and enabling seamless encryption without disrupting workflows.
– A second project stage in 2026 will expand to integrate encryption keys across the entire supply chain, supporting Defence’s resilience and post-quantum encryption goals.
GuardWare has introduced PROTECT, a groundbreaking encryption software suite designed to persistently secure sensitive data while it is actively being used. This world-first solution enables secure data movement throughout supply chains and allows document owners to destroy files remotely whenever necessary. Developed in partnership with UNSW researchers and backed by Defence Trailblazer, PROTECT strengthens cyber resilience by focusing on data-centric security.
A major challenge for defence and manufacturing industries involves protecting intellectual property stored in unstructured data files. These files—such as CAD designs, source code, sensor data, and video content—often remain unencrypted on user desktops, creating serious vulnerabilities. As AI-driven phishing attacks grow more accessible and effective, trusted user credentials can easily be compromised. Rizwan Mahmood, CEO and co-founder of GuardWare, describes the current environment as an “Asymmetric Threatscape,” where hackers bypass traditional defenses simply by logging in.
Until now, there has been no practical method to encrypt individual unstructured files during active use. Existing protections have relied on trust, audits, and contractual penalties—measures that have proven insufficient. According to recent reports, foreign actors stole over $2 billion in intellectual property from Australian companies in 2024 alone.
PROTECT addresses this gap with a Data-Centric Security (DCS) approach. Rather than depending on network or perimeter defenses, which fail when credentials are stolen, the software secures the data itself. It supports persistent encryption during file use, keeping information protected even while being edited, shared, or stored. This capability is vital for safeguarding official sensitive data across the entire Defence supply chain and supports Australia’s sovereign cybersecurity and manufacturing capabilities.
In the event of a security breach, PROTECT ensures that stolen data remains unusable. Owners retain full control, with the ability to revoke access or permanently delete files anywhere in the world. The encryption is also quantum-resilient, aligning with future Defence and national security standards. Mahmood emphasized that the system is scalable and works seamlessly across endpoints, cloud platforms, and supply chains without disrupting user workflows.
The PROTECT software emerged from an unstructured data resilience project supported by Defence Trailblazer’s Technology Development & Acceleration program. Academic leads Professor Salil Kanhere and Dr. Sushmita Ruj from UNSW Sydney contributed key research, particularly in overcoming latency and efficiency issues associated with file-wrapping encryption. By minimizing computational overhead, the team ensured that persistent encryption operates smoothly at scale, avoiding delays in file access or editing.
A second project phase, planned for 2026, will extend encryption capabilities across entire supply chains. This stage will focus on integrating encryption keys from multiple providers, allowing Defence organizations and prime contractors to maintain end-to-end control of their information. These efforts align with the Defence Strategic Review’s emphasis on supply chain resilience and support the transition to post-quantum encryption standards. According to Professor Kanhere, the initiative not only hardens supply chains against attacks but also establishes a scalable, future-ready security framework for Defence and critical industries.
GuardWare will officially launch PROTECT on October 29, 2025, following a seminar titled “Securing Australia’s Defence Research,” hosted at UNSW’s Kensington Campus starting at 1:30 PM AEDT.
(Source: ITWire Australia)
