Trishneet Arora, the founder and CEO of TAC Security, embodies the transformative journey from a school dropout to a multimillionaire entrepreneur and cybersecurity expert. His story is one of remarkable self-determination and unconventional success, illustrating how passion and resilience can redefine career trajectories.
A Rocky Start and an Unexpected Passion
Trishneet Arora’s academic path was anything but conventional. Dropping out of school after failing both the 8th and 12th grades, Arora’s early years were marked by a lack of interest in traditional studies. “I was never interested in studies. I was always a backbencher. As a child, I did all the things I was not supposed to do and kept my parents on their toes,” he candidly recalls. This rebellious spirit, however, was tempered by a deep-seated fascination with technology.
Arora’s interest in technology took a significant turn in 2007 when he began experimenting with hacking. Using his father, a tax consultant, as his initial test subject, Arora attempted to breach his father’s company systems. “The success then prompted me to take up hacking ethically later,” he reflects. This early experiment marked the beginning of his journey into the world of cybersecurity.
Building TAC Security
In February 2013, at the age of 19, Trishneet Arora launched TAC Security in Chandigarh, setting the stage for what would become a leading cybersecurity firm. Despite the challenges associated with starting a tech company at such a young age, Arora’s vision and expertise quickly propelled TAC Security to success. As of 2023, the company’s revenue stands at an impressive $16.4 million (approximately Rs 137 crore), and it is poised to go public in 2024, according to reports by DNA India and Economic Times.
TAC Security has established itself as a key player in the cybersecurity domain, boasting a diverse clientele that includes industry giants like Reliance Industries, Amul, BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange), and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). With over 150 clients across 15 countries, including India, the USA, the UK, and Canada, TAC Security’s reputation for excellence is well-earned.
The Ethic of Hacking and Career Success
Trishneet Arora’s rise to prominence as one of India’s youngest ethical hackers is a testament to his dedication and ingenuity. By self-learning and refining his skills, Arora transitioned from a school dropout to an influential figure in cybersecurity. His journey underscores the importance of pursuing one’s passion with relentless focus.
Arora’s approach to hacking was initially self-taught, driven by a genuine curiosity and a desire to explore the depths of computer systems. “You have to be naturally inclined towards it and develop a healthy curiosity to delve deep into the systems. Initially, it was a tad difficult for me to understand the basics of hacking as there wasn’t too much reading material available on the internet then,” he shares. His self-reliance and practice were pivotal in transforming his early experiments into a successful career.
In 2017, his accomplishments were recognized when he was listed in GQ India’s 50 Most Influential Young Indians. This accolade not only highlighted his achievements but also underscored the impact of his work in the field of cybersecurity.
The Path Ahead
As the CEO of TAC Security, Trishneet Arora continues to steer his company towards new heights, focusing on risk and vulnerability management in an increasingly complex digital landscape. His journey from a troubled school student to a leading entrepreneur serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that unconventional paths and self-directed learning can lead to extraordinary success.
Arora’s story is a powerful reminder that passion, combined with determination and a willingness to forge one’s own path, can lead to remarkable achievements. As he prepares to take TAC Security public and expand its influence further, Trishneet Arora remains a dynamic figure in the world of cybersecurity, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the digital age.
