Trishneet Arora, now a name synonymous with cybersecurity innovation, was once a school dropout from Ludhiana, Punjab. His journey into the world of technology and cybersecurity began at a young age, driven by a deep fascination with computers and the endless possibilities they offered. “I skipped my 8th-grade exams to attend a workshop on information security in Chandigarh. This decision wasn’t just a leap of faith; it was a step into a future I could barely imagine at the time,” recalls Arora, who is now 31 years old.
Coming from a modest background, Arora faced financial constraints, but he credits his family’s unwavering support as his greatest asset. Despite the challenges, he was determined to make a mark in the world of cybersecurity. “As I delved deeper into technology, I realized that the world was becoming more interconnected, and with that, more vulnerable. Cyber threats were evolving rapidly, and organizations were unprepared for the scale of risks they faced. Cybersecurity became more than just a passion—it became a way to serve,” he shares.
The idea for TAC Security, his now-thriving cybersecurity firm, was born out of a combination of curiosity, necessity, and a deep sense of purpose. Arora’s vision was clear: to create solutions for the rapidly growing global cybersecurity problems. He recognized that as the digital world expanded, the risks also grew exponentially, and organizations needed proactive defenses to safeguard their operations.
However, starting a business was no easy feat. Arora, who had limited financial resources, needed funds to turn his dream into reality. “My father, though initially hesitant, saw my determination and lent me Rs 75,000—a significant amount for us then,” he recalls. With this loan, Arora began conducting ethical hacking workshops, offering hands-on cybersecurity training to individuals and organizations. Despite financial struggles and skepticism from peers, his unwavering belief in the importance of cybersecurity fueled his determination to succeed.
The small loan from his father eventually led to a business worth Rs 1,500 crore, propelling Arora to become one of the youngest richest Indians today. “We have redefined what an Indian company can achieve on a global scale. From conducting workshops to becoming a global leader in vulnerability management, we have achieved milestones that once seemed impossible,” says Arora with pride. In 2024, TAC Security made history by becoming the first pure-play Indian cybersecurity company to go public.
Today, TAC Security serves over 2,000 clients across 80 countries, including governments, Fortune 500 companies, and startups. Arora’s company plays a crucial role in protecting digital ecosystems, including the National Payments Corporation of India’s (NPCI) Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a backbone of India’s digital payment revolution. “We are solving challenges on a scale that impacts billions of lives, and that is a responsibility I carry with pride and humility,” he adds.
While Arora’s business empire has expanded globally, his roots remain in Chandigarh. “Chandigarh is not just a city; its unique charm, beauty, and peaceful ambiance make it an experience,” says Arora. No matter where he travels, Chandigarh always feels like home. He believes the city offers the perfect balance between innovation and tranquility, making it an ideal place for creative minds to thrive.
Arora envisions a future where Chandigarh becomes a hub for innovation without losing its serene atmosphere. He suggests that the government can support this by introducing tailored schemes for startups, providing funding, mentorship, and infrastructure for industries like AI, cybersecurity, and blockchain. These hubs can allow entrepreneurs to solve global problems while staying rooted in the city’s peaceful environment.
For Arora, relaxation comes from reconnecting with his inner self. “I find peace in meditation and introspection, which help me stay grounded and focused. Spending time with family and immersing myself in nature provide the balance I need in a fast-paced life,” he shares. His personal philosophy centers around leadership, spirituality, and the importance of giving back. These moments of solitude help him stay focused on the bigger picture—creating impact and finding joy in the journey.
Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Arora advises aspiring entrepreneurs to “believe in your dreams, no matter how distant they may seem.” His story, from being a school dropout in Ludhiana to building a global cybersecurity enterprise, serves as an inspiration to many. “My journey is a testament to what faith, hard work, and resilience can achieve,” he concludes.
Arora’s achievements, including being featured on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2018) and Fortune India 40 Under 40 (2019), are a reflection of his dedication and vision. “These accomplishments are not just mine—they belong to every individual who believed in me, to the industry that gave me everything, and to the divine plan that guided me,” he humbly acknowledges.
Ultimately, what drives Arora every day is the empowerment he feels from solving real-world problems. “What motivates me is not just passion but the ability to make a meaningful impact on society. Whether it’s customers, teammates, partners, or the community at large, I’m driven by the opportunity to solve real problems for real people,” he concludes.
