Microsoft aims to enhance the security of its products and services by inviting security researchers to participate in the expanded Bug-Bounty-Program called Zero Day Quest. This event offers a total of 4 million US dollars in rewards for finding security vulnerabilities. After vulnerabilities are identified, Microsoft examines them and develops security updates.
The main focus of the event is on AI and cloud services. The event runs from now until January 19, 2025. The top ten security researchers, along with 45 others selected based on their submissions, will be invited to an onsite hacking event at the Microsoft campus in Redmond, Washington.
The search for security vulnerabilities covers Azure, Dynamics 365, M365, Identity, Microsoft AI, and Power Platform. Microsoft has permanently doubled the rewards for software vulnerabilities in AI products. A maximum of 30,000 US dollars can be earned for a vulnerability that allows attackers to execute malicious code. During the event, there is a 50 percent bonus on certain cash rewards for selected areas.
Payouts are only granted if researchers follow the rules for discovering vulnerabilities. Among other things, Microsoft engineers must be able to understand all steps of an attack. Submissions that do not meet the criteria will be rejected. Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks do not qualify.
Further information on the individual categories is summarized by the event organizer in these posts:
- Microsoft AI
- Microsoft Azure
- Microsoft Identity
- M365
- Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Platform
This initiative by Microsoft reflects the increasing importance of cybersecurity in the tech industry. With the rise of AI and cloud computing, the potential for vulnerabilities has grown, making it essential for companies to proactively address these issues.
By engaging with security researchers, Microsoft not only aims to protect its own systems but also to contribute to the broader security landscape. The collaboration between tech companies and the security community is crucial in identifying and mitigating potential threats before they can be exploited by malicious actors.
The Zero Day Quest event is an excellent opportunity for security researchers to showcase their skills and contribute to the safety of widely used technologies. The financial incentives offered by Microsoft demonstrate the company’s commitment to attracting top talent in the field and ensuring that its products remain secure.
As technology continues to evolve, the need for robust security measures becomes ever more critical. Events like Zero Day Quest highlight the proactive steps that companies can take to safeguard their systems and protect users from potential cyber threats.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s Zero Day Quest represents a significant effort to enhance the security of its offerings. By incentivizing security researchers to identify vulnerabilities, Microsoft is taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, which is essential in today’s digital age. The event not only benefits Microsoft but also contributes to the overall security of the tech ecosystem.