Bug bounty: reward the responsible discovery of vulnerabilities
A bug bounty program invites external security researchers to identify vulnerabilities within a defined scope, in exchange for a reward proportionate to the severity of each vulnerability discovered and responsibly reported.
Definition
Unlike a conventional penetration test, carried out over a defined period by a small team, a bug bounty program continuously mobilizes a large number of researchers with varied profiles, increasing the diversity of attack angles tested.
Setting it up requires a clearly defined scope, precise rules of engagement, and an organization capable of handling incoming reports within reasonable timeframes; a poorly managed program can discourage researchers or generate an unmanageable volume of reports.
Key points
Continuous discovery
Unlike a one-off test, bug bounty keeps researchers engaged throughout the duration of the program.
Rewards based on severity
Each validated vulnerability is rewarded according to its impact, encouraging high-quality reports.
A framework that must be precisely defined
Scope, rules of engagement, and handling times determine the program's success.
How BCIT can support you
A penetration test often remains the most suitable starting point before considering a permanent bug bounty program.
Frequently asked questions
Is bug bounty suitable for a small business?
Not always as a first step: a one-off penetration test, which is easier to scope, is often a better entry point before a continuous program.
How are bug bounty researchers rewarded?
Generally according to a pre-defined scale, proportionate to the severity of each validated vulnerability that is responsibly reported.
Not ready to talk yet? Discover our cybersecurity assessment →
Is bug bounty suited to your current maturity level?
Let's discuss the best approach between a one-off pentest and a continuous program.
Bug bounty: reward the responsible discovery of vulnerabilities
A bug bounty program invites external security researchers to identify vulnerabilities within a defined scope, in exchange for a reward proportionate to the severity of each vulnerability discovered and responsibly reported.
Definition
Unlike a conventional penetration test, carried out over a defined period by a small team, a bug bounty program continuously mobilizes a large number of researchers with varied profiles, increasing the diversity of attack angles tested.
Setting it up requires a clearly defined scope, precise rules of engagement, and an organization capable of handling incoming reports within reasonable timeframes; a poorly managed program can discourage researchers or generate an unmanageable volume of reports.
Key points
Continuous discovery
Unlike a one-off test, bug bounty keeps researchers engaged throughout the duration of the program.
Rewards based on severity
Each validated vulnerability is rewarded according to its impact, encouraging high-quality reports.
A framework that must be precisely defined
Scope, rules of engagement, and handling times determine the program's success.
How BCIT can support you
A penetration test often remains the most suitable starting point before considering a permanent bug bounty program.
Frequently asked questions
Is bug bounty suitable for a small business?
Not always as a first step: a one-off penetration test, which is easier to scope, is often a better entry point before a continuous program.
How are bug bounty researchers rewarded?
Generally according to a pre-defined scale, proportionate to the severity of each validated vulnerability that is responsibly reported.
Not ready to talk yet? Discover our cybersecurity assessment →
Is bug bounty suited to your current maturity level?
Let's discuss the best approach between a one-off pentest and a continuous program.