Tessian

Human layer security platform preventing inbound threats and outbound misdirected emails

AI Email SecurityCustom pricing / per-user licensing
How we work:This listing is aggregated from Tessian's official documentation, public pricing pages, community discussions (Reddit, HN, forums), and real user feedback. We do not do hands-on testing. We aggregate and organize what's already out there. Last verified February 2026.

What is Tessian?

Tessian (now part of Proofpoint following acquisition) is a human layer security platform that uses machine learning to protect against inbound email threats and prevent outbound data loss caused by human error. Its AI engine analyzes email communication patterns to detect phishing, BEC, account takeover, and misdirected emails — where users accidentally send sensitive data to the wrong recipient. Tessian's unique strength is its ability to prevent accidental data loss alongside inbound threat protection, addressing the human risk layer that traditional gateways miss.

Best for: Organizations concerned about both inbound email threats and accidental data loss from misdirected emails and human error
Pros
  • ✓ Unique misdirected email prevention addresses a gap no other tool covers well
  • ✓ Behavioral AI catches threats that gateway solutions miss
  • ✓ Real-time coaching helps users make better security decisions
  • ✓ Prevents both intentional exfiltration and accidental data loss
  • ✓ API-based deployment with no MX record changes required
Cons
  • ✗ Now part of Proofpoint — future as standalone product uncertain
  • ✗ Not a full email gateway replacement
  • ✗ Narrower threat coverage than comprehensive email security platforms
  • ✗ Behavioral models require learning period to reduce initial false positives
  • ✗ No email archiving or compliance capabilities

Key Features

→Inbound email threat detection
→Misdirected email prevention
→Accidental data loss protection
→Behavioral AI for anomaly detection
→Real-time user coaching notifications
→Account takeover detection
→API-based deployment
→Exfiltration detection for data theft

Tessian Comparisons

Tessian vs Proofpoint→Tessian vs Abnormal Security→Tessian vs Barracuda Email Security→Tessian vs Microsoft Defender for Office 365→Tessian vs Mimecast→Tessian vs IRONSCALES→Tessian vs Cisco Secure Email→Tessian vs Trend Micro Email Security→
Quick Info
PricingCustom pricing / per-user licensing
ModelPer-user subscription
Founded2013
CloudYes
Self-HostedNo
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Last updated: Feb 20, 2026

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