Why Do Hackers Get Paid for Finding Bugs in Software Companies?

In the world of cybersecurity, the relationship between software companies and security experts can be complex. Traditionally, companies have preferred to work with ethical hackers through bug bounty programs rather than offering ransom payments for the discovery of security vulnerabilities. This article explores the dynamics of this relationship and reconsiders the common practices and expectations in the industry.

The Standard Practice: No Ransom, Full Credit

Companies are generally not willing to pay a ransom for the discovery of security vulnerabilities by hackers. Instead, they typically reward hackers transparently, acknowledging them through public credit. This approach ensures that hackers are recognized for their contributions while maintaining ethical and responsible behavior.

At my previous role as a security analyst, I worked closely with a variety of hackers. Some were motivated by the desire for recognition and collaboration, while others sought to exploit vulnerabilities for their own gain. It was often easier to work with those who were open to collaboration, as they could help protect our customers and ensure that the vulnerabilities were mitigated responsibly.

Why Ransom Is Not the Norm

When hackers demand ransom for the discovery of a security vulnerability, they face significant obstacles. Firstly, their claims are generally dismissed. Companies like Google and banks, which have established bug bounty programs, are often more willing to recognize and address security issues. However, for many public and private companies, such demands are not taken seriously.

The reality is that not all companies have established bug bounty programs, and those that do often do not acknowledge every bug report. This can lead to frustrating exchanges where hackers are ignored or their claims are denied. The lack of transparency and acknowledgment can create a barrier to effective communication and collaboration between hackers and companies.

List of Companies with Bug Bounty Programs

The Bugcrowd platform provides a comprehensive list of companies that offer bug bounty programs. While this list is valuable, it is important to note that it may not capture all companies that have such programs. Many larger corporations invite security research companies to conduct vulnerability analyses and perform penetration tests. These partnerships are often more formal and less public than bug bounty programs.

Despite the existence of these programs, the effectiveness of the bounty programs can vary. Some companies reward vulnerabilities while others do not. This disparity can lead to frustration among hackers and a lack of trust in the industry's commitment to cybersecurity.

The Reactive Nature of Rewarding Vulnerabilities

Some companies are more reactive than proactive in their approach to vulnerability discovery. They may only address issues once they have been made public or by security researchers. This reactive approach can leave companies vulnerable to significant security breaches if they do not prioritize regular testing and collaboration with security experts.

Only a few companies have a proactive stance, like Google and major banks. These organizations not only acknowledge vulnerabilities but also work proactively to mitigate them. Their commitment to cybersecurity goes beyond bug bounty programs and involves ongoing partnerships with ethical hackers and security research firms.

Conclusion

The relationship between software companies and hackers is evolving. While ransom demands are not a common practice, recognizing and rewarding vulnerabilities through bug bounty programs can significantly improve cybersecurity. Companies that adopt a proactive stance and establish transparent bug bounty programs are more likely to build trust and ensure the security of their systems.

For hackers, the key to success lies in demonstrating that they can be trusted partners in the fight against cybersecurity threats. By working collaboratively and ensuring that vulnerabilities are responsibly disclosed and addressed, hackers can build a positive reputation and increase their chances of being recognized and rewarded.