Microsoft’s bug bounty program awarded a record-breaking $17 million to 344 security researchers across 59 countries, marking the highest annual payout since 2018. The company is now expanding its bug bounty initiatives to cover more products and services, aligning with emerging cyber threats and security challenges. #ZeroDayQuest #MicrosoftSecurity
Keypoints
- Microsoft distributed a total of $92.5 million through its bug bounty programs since 2018.
- The company awarded $17 million last year, with a notable increase from previous years.
- Microsoft is now accepting submissions for the 2026 research challenge, offering up to $5 million in rewards.
- The bug bounty scope has expanded to include more products like Azure, Copilot, and Dynamics 365, with higher incentives.
- New security programs now cover Defender for Identity, Office, Cloud Applications, and AI-related vulnerabilities.
Read More: https://www.securityweek.com/microsoft-paid-out-17-million-in-bug-bounties-in-past-year/