Any website can be vulnerable to security loopholes — even Government-operated ones. That’s likely why the Government Technology Agency (GovTech) has decided to bolster defences by getting help from who else but hackers themselves.
They released a media statement today (31 Aug) about their new Vulnerability Rewards Programme (VRP).
Offering bounties of up to US$150,000 (S$201,585), they’re calling on ‘white hat’ or ethical hackers to spot vulnerabilities in any Government systems.
GovTech announced their new programme on Tuesday (31 Aug), aimed at helping to test the resilience of critical Government systems.
Together with the existing Government Bug Bounty Programme (GBBP) and Vulnerability Disclosure Programme (VDP), it will help to safeguard the Government’s Infocomm Technology and Smart Systems (ICT&SS).
This time, the appeal is for ethical hackers to help GovTech find vulnerabilities in online Government systems.
Hackers who successfully do so can earn rewards ranging from US$250 (S$335) to US$5,000 ($6,719).
But vulnerabilities that can cause an exceptional impact on selected systems and data can earn a hacker a special bounty of up to US$150,000 (S$201, 585).
To test out the programme, it will cover 3 systems:
These systems are crucial to delivering essential digital Government services.
Candidates will conduct security testing through a designated virtual private network (VPN) gateway, which HackerOne will provide to ensure that activities are within the permitted Rules of Engagement (ROE).
Should participants breach the ROE, they may lose their VPN access. Doing so will reduce the likelihood of disrupting the integrity of the Government system.
With the programme in place, the Government will be able to gain access to a global pool of cybersecurity talents. From there, they can build a tighter security system to ensure the safety of Singapore’s data.
With the new programme in place, hopefully, Singapore will be able to build a tighter security system to prevent hacking incidents.
In the meantime, it is also important for individuals to safeguard their own individual data to ensure their privacy.
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image adapted from Fatos Bytyqi on Unsplash.
He will be running against Malaysia-born MP Sam Lim.
The offender was subdued by nearby passengers and handed over to the police.
The spot in the foyer is usually reserved for the latest President to have their…
Bookings will officially open next month, with room rates starting from S$80 per night.
The man said he wasn't aware that he was breaking Thai laws.
An eyewitness said another truck collided with the 18-wheeler before fleeing the scene.