HackerOne [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7], a bug bounty program [1] [2] [4] [5] [6] [7], has achieved a significant milestone by awarding over $300 million to ethical hackers and vulnerability researchers since its launch a decade ago. This success reflects the platform’s ability to connect organizations with ethical hackers, who identify and report bugs in exchange for rewards [3].
Description
Notably, 30 security researchers have earned more than $1 million each, with one individual surpassing $4 million in total earnings [1] [3], setting a new record [5]. Crypto and blockchain organizations have shown strong engagement with the HackerOne platform [3], offering the highest average rewards and awarding the top payout of $100,050 [3]. This aligns with the interest of hackers on the platform, who are particularly interested in these organizations due to the high rewards they offer [4].
The latest HackerOne report reveals that hackers believe generative AI will be a top target in the future [4], with 55% expressing this concern. This aligns with the growing popularity of generative AI among ethical hackers, with 61% planning to utilize it for developing new tools to identify vulnerabilities. However, there is also a concern that GenAI itself may become a major target for attacks, as predicted by 51% of ethical hackers.
Furthermore, the report highlights that Google has expanded its bug bounty program to include generative AI [4], indicating the increasing importance of this technology in the hacking community.
The average time for fixing vulnerabilities has decreased by 10 days in 2023 [1], with notable improvements seen in the automotive, media and entertainment [1], and government sectors [1]. This demonstrates the progress being made in addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing security measures.
Conclusion
The HackerOne report provides valuable insights into the world of ethical hacking and the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. It showcases the significant contributions of ethical hackers in identifying vulnerabilities and preventing security incidents, while also highlighting the potential risks and challenges associated with emerging technologies like generative AI. The report emphasizes the need for continued efforts to address vulnerabilities and enhance security measures, as well as the importance of staying vigilant in the face of evolving threats.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/hackerone-exceeds-300m-bug-bounty/
[2] https://actualnewsmagazine.com/english/hackerone-says-its-bug-bounty-programs-have-awarded-300m-in-rewards-since-the-platforms-inception-with-30-hackers-earning-1m-and-one-receiving-4m-bill-toulas-bleepingcomputer/
[3] https://www.msspalert.com/news/ethical-hackers-land-300-million-in-bug-bounties-on-hackerone-platform
[4] https://uk.pcmag.com/first-looks/149382/hackers-have-earned-more-than-300-million-on-the-hackerone-platform
[5] https://zerosecurity.org/2023/10/hackerone-surpasses-300-million-in-rewards-for-ethical-hackers/
[6] https://me.pcmag.com/en/old-it-security/20193/hackers-have-earned-more-than-300-million-on-the-hackerone-platform
[7] https://gillettnews.com/news/hackerone-a-platform-for-ethical-hacking-and-bug-bounty-programs/192613/
