The Department of Defense is recruiting experienced and vetted hackers to put its security to the test. The new program, called “Hack the Pentagon,” will launch in April.
The Pentagon’s program mirrors similar challenges from large companies, who recruit so-called “white hat hackers” to test their cybersecurity systems. Some companies, like Google, pay hackers who find and report bugs and exploits in its software.
It’s unclear if the Pentagon will offer monetary rewards as part of the new program. The Department of Defense says it’s the “first in a series of programs designed to test and find vulnerabilities” in its apps, websites, and networks.
Those interested in participating will have to register and submit to a background check. Once approved, hackers will participate in a controlled, limited-duration program that involves seeking out vulnerabilities on a predetermined department system. The department says its “critical, mission-facing” systems will not be part of the pilot program.
The initiative comes months after NBC News reported that Russian hackers recently launched a “sophisticated cyberattack” on the Pentagon’s email systems. Last month, it was announced that President Barack Obama’s budget proposal for the 2017 fiscal year seeks $19 billion for cybersecurity as part of an initiative called the Cybersecurity National Action Plan.
- The Case for Mediocrity
- How Russia Is Recruiting Cubans to Fight in Ukraine
- Paul Hollywood Answers All of Your Questions About The Great British Baking Show
- Meet the 2023 TIME100 Next: the Emerging Leaders Shaping the World
- Oprah and Arthur C. Brooks: How to Separate Work From Your Identity
- How Canada and India's Relationship Crumbled
- You Don’t Have to Like Wrestling to Love Netflix’s Excellent Wrestlers
- The Most Anticipated Books, Movies, TV, and Music of Fall 2023
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
