Microsoft to acquire cybersecurity firm RiskIQ

Microsoft confirmed Monday it is buying RiskIQ, a San Francisco security company. Bloomberg reported Sunday that the deal was in the works at a price of more than $500 million.

Why it matters: The move comes amid a crush of ransomware attacks (see above) and as Microsoft is looking to protect businesses, organizations and individuals from both profit-driven and politically motivated attacks.

What they're saying: Microsoft said that RiskIQ helps customers see potential avenues for attack across cloud computing system from Microsoft, Amazon and others as well as via companies' own systems as well as look at supply chain risks.

• Microsoft declined to share financial terms of the deal.