Though most people think of hackers as malicious types who break into computer networks for nefarious purposes, this is not always the case. White Hat hackers, as we discussed in our last blog post, are helpful computer masters who hack into secure networks to help make them stronger. If you’re interested in getting in on the action for your career, then you will be pleased to know that companies like Google and Microsoft offer big rewards for ethical hackers who can crack their codes.
The Google Vulnerability Reward Program
No one is perfect, not even Google. In fact, they’re very aware that they are capable of mistakes and are offering cash rewards for people that can help them patch problems. Their highest prize is for clever code crackers who can compromise a chromebook or chromebox at $100,000. There are also smaller prizes for a wide variety of other exploits that offer prizes ranging from $500 to $15,000, as long as you include a high-quality report with a functional exploit. Even without that, you can still walk away with a nice chunk of change depending on the quality of your information. At the end of the day, if you’re interested in getting involved with information systems security, it’s certainly worth a shot. Before you start, you should take a look at some of the rules to make sure you don’t get yourself in any trouble. You can take a look at them here.
Join the Hall of Fame and Launch Your Career
If the money isn’t enough to get you excited about launching your career in cybersecurity, then take a look at the BugHunter Hall of Fame. If you’re able to submit enough bug reports of high quality, then you will enjoy a spot on one of their pages. This competition is international, so you’ll see talented cybersecurity professionals from all over the world. You’ll also see that a lot of these professionals have their website listed on their profiles, which makes for great exposure. After all, is there a company better to list on your resume than Google?
Along with business websites, you can also find blogs and twitter feeds that walk you through some of the bugs that were submitted. This is your chance to take a look into some of the brightest minds in cybersecurity, so take advantage and learn all that you can.
Join MAGIC for the CyberClub!
Our CyberClub started on 6/22 and will keep on going until 9/28 on Saturdays from 9 am to noon. As of this blog posting, the club is filled. However, you can save your place in line by joining the waiting list. Through the amazing work of our alumni volunteers, we’re working to teach the great cybersecurity professionals of tomorrow the skills they need to tackle complex challenges and even take on the CyberPatriot competition if they’re up for it! We’re so excited to continue the club and inspire young minds throughout Carroll County and beyond!
