The latest news from GObugfree
Thoughts on cyber security, product announcements and news
Strengthening cybersecurity for Swiss SMEs: Agile solutions
Cyberattacks are an increasing threat to Swiss SMEs, with one in three companies already affected. Discover how crowd-sourced security and a holistic vulnerability management approach can enhance your security maturity and proactively address cyber risks.
09/12/2024
RaiseNow at GOhack24 – Hack for Good
The GOhack24 Hack for Good demonstrated how technical expertise and social responsibility can come together to create meaningful impact. Over two days, ethical hackers tested the systems of program partners RaiseNow and Koalect for vulnerabilities. For every security flaw discovered, a donation was made to Save the Children Switzerland, resulting in an impressive total of CHF 5'000.
02/12/2024
GOhack24 recap: Strengthening cybersecurity through collaboration
How can businesses better respond to cyber threats? GOhack24 brought together over 350 cybersecurity experts, ethical hackers, and enthusiasts at the FFHS Schweiz to share knowledge, connect with leading minds, and showcase their skills in live bug bounty hunting. From the EDU Track with its engaging educational content to the collaborative fight against cybercrime at the symposium, the event provided a platform for innovative ideas and practical solutions.
28/11/2024
Christian Folini on the strategic role of web application firewalls
Christian Folini is a leading expert in cyber security. As a member of the steering committee of the National Cyber Strategy (NCS) and co-leader of the OWASP CRS project, he makes significant contributions to the development of security technologies. He also has an impressive background in medieval history. Find out how his work with web application firewalls challenges bug bounty hunters and shapes the security landscape. Meet Christian at GOhack24 to benefit from his extensive knowledge.
27/09/2024
GOhack24: Cybersecurity for all - with over CHF 60'000 in bounties!
After last year’s resounding success, GOhack is back for its second edition from November 14 to 16, 2024, at the Fernfachhochschule Schweiz (FFHS) in Zurich. This unique event brings together a symposium, live bug bounty challenge with over CHF 60'000 in bounties, and an educational program focused on practical insights into cybersecurity.
25/09/2024
Bug bounty programs in 2024: An indispensable element of modern cybersecurity
In 2024, bug bounty programs will remain an indispensable part of cybersecurity strategies. In the face of increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks - from AI-based attacks to zero-day exploits - they offer organizations the ability to tap into the expertise of a global community of cybersecurity experts. These programs provide continuous testing to help detect and fix vulnerabilities early, before they are exploited by malicious actors.
20/09/2024
GOLearn - Cyber insurance: Essential or excessive?
Cyber security is an essential part of any modern business. But how important is cyber insurance really? In this GOlearn session, Tobias Seitz from Helvetia Insurance talks to GObugfree Co-CEO Christina Kistler about the role cyber insurance can play in your IT security strategy and whether it is essential or excessive for your business. Find out what cyber insurance covers, where its limits lie and how you can optimally protect your company.
14/08/2024
How bug bounty programs enhance security in the financial sector
Unique, a pioneer in developing generative AI solutions for the financial sector, skillfully navigates between rapid development and the stringent compliance and security requirements of its highly regulated and risk-averse clients. How does a bug bounty program fit into this scenario?
17/07/2024
The SNSF’s strategy for protecting sensitive data with bug bounties
The Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) not only funds thousands of research projects across all scientific disciplines but also leads the way in securing sensitive data. Chief Information Security Officer Anton Brunner explains how the SNSF’s bug bounty program enhances the cybersecurity of its portals and makes a crucial contribution to data security.
25/06/2024
Cyber resilience workshop in the heart of Switzerland
A unique workshop on cyber resilience, organised by the Cyber Resilience Alliance was recently held in ‘The Room’ at Zibris. The event was aimed at individuals who are responsible for cybersecurity or would like to delve deeper into these topics, such as management, executive management and board members. The aim was to bring the topic of cyber security closer, break down barriers and create awareness. GObugfree, as part of the cyber resilience alliance, was involved in the event.
07/06/2024
ZKB Explores Bug Bounty Program with GOHack Challenge
Trust is a core value of Zürcher Kantonalbank (ZKB), and cybersecurity plays a crucial role in upholding it. Sarah Plocher, Security Analyst at ZKB, explains how the bank, in collaboration with GObugfree, explored the potential of a bug-bounty program through the GOHack Challenge. The goal of this exploration was to evaluate the necessary preparations and internal processes for a potential implementation, thereby strengthening the bank's security measures and proactively addressing vulnerabilities.
04/06/2024
Vulnerability Disclosure Programs: For the secure reporting of vulnerabilities
Vulnerability Disclosure Programs (VDPs) play a significant role in improving cybersecurity by enabling third parties to securely report vulnerabilities. GObugfrees' free tool, GOvdp, makes it easy for organizations to efficiently implement and manage their own VDPs, allowing them to benefit from findings made by external parties.
23/05/2024
Hands-on workshop: Cyber Resilience live
Experience first-hand how cyber attacks happen and strengthen your own cyber resilience. Save your place now for the hands-on workshop on June 5!
16/05/2024
GOlearn - Securing Trust: Ethical hacking & background checks explained
Learn how ethical hacking and comprehensive background checks can serve as critical protections for your organisation amid growing cyber threats.
29/04/2024
Bridging security and innovation: GObugfree's free VDP fosters secure collaboration between ethical hackers and companies
GObugfree leads the way in Switzerland as the first to provide a free Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP). This program establishes a secure communication channel between businesses and ethical hackers, encouraging a more accountable handling of security vulnerabilities.
24/04/2024
ZKB Challenge
Join the ZKB challenge from April 30 - May 10, 2024. Help secure Zürcher Kantonalbank's Federated Identity Management application. There's a total bounty pool of CHF 15'000 waiting to be claimed - valid critical findings will be rewarded with CHF 2'000.
16/04/2024
Why bug bounty programs and pentests go hand in hand
In the world of cyber security, it is essential to proactively identify and fix vulnerabilities in IT systems. Two effective methods that complement each other are bug bounty programs and pentests. This article highlights the benefits of both approaches and provides guidance on how to set up an effective bug bounty program for your company.
28/03/2024
GOlearn - Empowering Enterprise Security Risk Management
Join our panel discussion on April 16 at 15:30 CET to learn how managing security risks as a whole, known as Enterprise Security Risk Management (ESRM), can break down barriers and strengthen your organization. Hear from experts about the crucial steps for integrating security efforts across all areas, transforming a holistic approach into real, tangible strength. We'll cover important topics like overcoming isolated security efforts, fostering a culture that supports collaboration, and the essential skills needed for effective ESRM.
22/03/2024
Harnessing collective wisdom: GObugfree embraces Co-CEO leadership
With the appointment of Christina Kistler and Marcel Eyer as Co-CEOs, GObugfree underlines its commitment to diversity and innovation. This appointment marks a significant milestone for GObugfree, the premier Swiss platform for crowd-sourced vulnerability management, reinforcing our pledge to advance ethical hacking and enhance cybersecurity accessibility, with a special focus on safeguarding SMEs across the DACH region.
19/03/2024
The magic of crowdsourced security: netplus.ch's bug bounty story
How does a Swiss telecom provider with a small IT team stay ahead of growing cybersecurity threats? Jean-Blaise Rey, Head of Applications at netplus, shares insights into how embracing bug bounty programs and the collective insight of ethical hackers is enhancing their defense strategy, contributing to the ongoing security of their network and maintaining the trust of their customers.
12/03/2024
How Maestrani strengthens its cybersecurity with the help of ethical hackers
In an era where cyber threats are a daily concern, Maestrani has taken a crucial step to enhance its IT security: employing ethical hackers. Through a Community Bugtest, external specialists provide invaluable insights that contribute to the evolution of Maestrani's security strategy. Thomas Leitner, a member of the executive team, shares insights into the significance of this process for the company.
08/02/2024
Cyber risks: An unavoidable challenge in 2024
In 2024, cyber risks are once again in the spotlight - in the top 5 global risks in the World Economic Forum report and the number one business risk in the Allianz Risk Barometer. Find out how these risks affect businesses, governments and individuals and what trends will drive cyber activity in 2024.
26/01/2024
2023 Year in review
New customers, partnerships, participation in various events and our first GOHack: GObugfree can look back on an eventful year. We would like to thank our customers, partners, investors and employees for their support and trust and look forward to an exciting 2024 and continuing to accompany our customers on their GO-bugfree journey.
28/12/2023
Networking and collaboration: Key to cyber security
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, it is becoming increasingly important to act collectively and collaboratively. Ralph Hutter, Head Ecosystems & Partnerships at Finnova, explains in the latest GOTalk how companies can succeed and collaborate effectively in the fast-paced cyber ecosystem.
19/12/2023
GOhack23: A first in the world of cybersecurity
From November 30 to December 2, 2023, GOhack23, a joint initiative of GObugfree and the Fernfachhochschule Schweiz (FFHS), took place in Zurich. This unique event combined a symposium, bug hunting and education track and brought together a diverse group of participants. Professionals, enthusiasts and newcomers alike came together on this comprehensive platform for sharing and learning about cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
11/12/2023
Hack for good
The term "friendly hacker" takes on a new meaning thanks to the joint commitment of GObugfree and RaiseNow. As part of GOHack23, friendly hackers will try to hack the systems of the non-profit start-up RaiseNow. Half of the bounties will be donated to Caritas Switzerland for charitable purposes, true to the motto: Hack for good.
29/11/2023
Human-Centered Security: People at the Core of Cybersecurity
Human-centered security is key in cybersecurity. Peter Kosel, cyberunity tells how knowing your talents can transform recruitment and protect your business
02/11/2023
Passion for Hacking: Learning, Teaching, and Relentless Curiosity
Sophus Siegenthaler's journey in the realm of cybersecurity is a testament to following one's passion and the power of relentless self-learning. With over two decades in the industry, he has witnessed its evolution from the early days of IT to the complex cybersecurity landscape of today. Beyond his personal endeavors, Sophus is keen on sharing his wealth of knowledge with the next generation . At GOHack23, Sophus will be leading a Hacking 101 session and CTF challenge, offering participants a unique opportunity to dive into the world of bug bounty hunting.
31/10/2023
An Unexpected Journey into Cybersecurity
Michael Meli, Group CISO at Julius Bär, discusses his intriguing journey, the unique challenges in the financial sector, and shares invaluable insights for those looking to move into the field of cybersecurity. Meet Michael at GOHack23, he'll be speaking in the EDU Track on December 1.
26/10/2023
Collaboration between Aequivalent and GObugfree: Emphasizing data protection
In a world where data security is a top priority, GObugfree and Aequivalent are working together to make it even stronger. GObugfree has set up a tailored Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP) for Aequivalent. On request, Aequivalent offer additional background checks for select friendly hackers on GObugfree's platform. Through this partnership, they ensure that sensitive information receives an extra layer of protection.
24/10/2023
Behind the Scenes: The Dual Role of Hacking and Defense
Antoine Neuenschwander heads up the Bug Bounty Program and serves as a Security Incident Responder at Swisscom. With over 15 years in the cybersecurity realm spanning various roles—from software development to IT security operations and penetration testing—he's deeply rooted in the industry. Outside of work, he wears the hat of an ethical hacker. Catch him at GOHack23 to delve into his wealth of experiences and find out how to get started in cybersecurity.
12/10/2023
Bug bounty programs: A three-way view of cybersecurity in the financial sector
Each year, experts from financial institutions gather at the "Secure E-Banking" event to share insights. This year, the focus was on the rapidly growing trend of bug-bounty programs in Switzerland and Europe. Oliver Hirschi, founder of "E-Banking - Safely!", recognized the importance of this topic and highlighted it at the event.
10/10/2023
GOHack23 Interview with Florian Muff BDO
As part of the existing partnership with GObugfree, BDO Switzerland supports GOHack23 as a main partner. Learn more about the importance of cybersecurity at BDO in the interview with Florian Muff, Manager Forensic Technology / Cyber Security. Get to know Florian better at GOHack23, where he will share his experiences in the EDU track.
05/10/2023
GOHack23-Cybersymposium
In an increasingly digitalized world, cybersecurity is crucial. At the GOHack23 Symposium Cyber Future, we'll discuss the meeting point of artificial intelligence and human insight, and explore the evolving educational landscape of tomorrow.
26/09/2023
Spotlight on cybersecurity: a recap of the August 2023 Inside IT event
As one of the main sponsors of the Inside-IT event on the topic of 'Cybersecurity of and in Switzerland', we take stock: What are the most pressing issues, and how do we as a society create trust in the digital world?
31/08/2023
GBF-BDO lunch event series
BDO Switzerland and GObugfree are working together to protect Swiss SMEs from cyber attacks. To this end, a joint event series on the topic of cyber security is being launched at various locations in Switzerland.
21/08/2023
GOHack23: GObugfree and the Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences team up to power cybersecurity in Switzerland
GObugfree and the Swiss Distance University of Applied Sciences (FFHS) are proud to announce GOHack23, a unique cybersecurity event bringing together a symposium, live bug bounty hunting, and education. The event will kick off on November 30 and will run through December 2, 2023. The Swiss Army is supporting the event as a partner.
19/07/2023
Between rolling green pastures and digital innovations: A review of DCONO 2023
The scenic community of Gais, a place where cows are an expected sight but where innovation might come as a surprise, was home to the inaugural Digital Conference Ostschweiz (DCONO). This event presented an intriguing blend of traditional charm and digital modernity, a fusion our team from GObugfree AG was delighted to be a part of.
23/06/2023
Cybersecurity Insights: GObugfree at DCONO 2023
Dive into the world of cybersecurity with us. At the DigitalConferenceOstschweiz (DCONO) on 15.6.2023, we will present a live hack and share valuable insights into cyber protection.
05/06/2023
GO Learn - Navigating the cyber threat landscape
GOLearn! In a series of interactive webinars, experts share tips and insights on current cyber security issues. Thie session with Jörg Schauff is on Navigating the cyber threat landscape: Actionable Insights for your business
18/04/2023
Helvetia and GObugfree support SMEs in preventing cyberattacks
Helvetia Insurance sets new standards in supporting its business customers in the field of cybersecurity. In a pioneering step for the Swiss insurance sector, Helvetia collaborates with bug bounty provider GObugfree to help their (SME) corporate customers identify and close security gaps effectively.
12/04/2023
Jumpstart your cybersecurity with a bug bounty starter program
When your company is suddenly targeted by cybercriminals, what’s your next move? Thomas Wagner from Wato-Soft shares his experience: "Although the attack on our data center was ultimately unsuccessful, it highlighted the urgent need for robust cybersecurity. It was clear to us – we needed to strengthen our cybersecurity measures."
05/04/2023
Hands-on training for tomorrow's security specialists
As part of a bug bounty education program with GObugfree (EDU program), students at the Fernfachhochschule Schweiz (FFHS) hack their own university and gain first experiences as bug bounty hunters. With this educational initiative, GObugfree and FFHS want to attract more talent to the field of cyber security and develop the next generation of security specialists.
22/03/2023
Ethical Hacker: Job of tomorrow
Zurich-based bug bounty provider GObugfree launches Switzerland's first bug bounty education program for ethical hacking at colleges and universities. For the past 10 months, the FHNW University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland has integrated the program into its educational offerings. The FFHS, Switzerland's leading distance learning university, now also partners with GObugfree in education.
15/03/2023
How Adnovum makes its software even more secure
When you have customers with high security requirements, you need to meet the highest security standards. With the help of Friendly Hackers, Adnovum subjects its software to additional testing.
14/03/2023
Beating cyber criminals at their own game
In nature, healthy ecosystems are essential for survival. This also applies in business. Especially when it comes to complex issues like cybercrime. GObugfree and fidentity, two Swiss companies, are building the foundation for a strong ecosystem against cyber attacks.
27/02/2023
Why cybersecurity needs to be part of your business strategy
Thierry Kneissler is a consultant, investor, lecturer, strategy champion, as well as co-founder and ex-CEO of TWINT. The Bernese family man worked for years in the traditional finance sector before moving into the fintech industry in 2014 with the founding of TWINT. Today, Thierry supports various companies and startups with his experience and knowledge, as an independent board member and advisor.
21/02/2023
GO Learn - Multi-Cloud = Multi-Risk?
GOLearn! In a series of interactive webinars, experts share tips and insights on current cyber security issues. First up: Lacework CISO Andy Schneider on Multi-Cloud security.
13/02/2023
Cyber threats: Opportunities for Innovation & IT
At the February 2, 2023 FFHS Business Breakfast, Anna Mempel, COO at Securnite; Rolf Wagner, COO at GObugfree; and Nicolas Mayencourt, CEO at Dreamlab Technologies discussed the growing threat of cyber attacks, why Switzerland isn't doing enough to protect itself, and how we can create more awareness to combat cybercrime.
09/02/2023
Increase your resiliency against account takeover
What can you do to increase the resilience of your online accounts This article provides actionable recommendations to make your accounts less attractive for most types of scams.
02/02/2023
GObugfree appoints experienced cyber expert Gerhard Beeker to grow the DACH market
Gerhard Beeker, season cyber expert, strengthens the GObugfree team as Senior Business Development Manager DACH to grow the DACH market.
17/01/2023
Why SMEs should get to grips with the new data protection law sooner rather than later
On September 1, 2023, the revised Data Protection Act will come into force. In the future, violations of key issues will be subject to penalties of up to CHF 250,000. These fines will be against individual decision-makers in the company, not against the company itself. Lukas Bühlmann, Co-Head Digital, Data Privacy & E-Commerce at MLL Legal, advises companies to address their processes and security measures early on and to integrate appropriate activities into their existing security concepts. To this end, a bug bounty program and pentesting can be helpful.
11/01/2023
2022 Year in Review
New public bug bounty programs, additions to the team, an Advisory Board, our first Hacking Challenge, talks, sponsorships, and participation in various events. 2022 was an action-packed year!
16/12/2022
GObugfree further expands its security division: Saner Çelebi is appointed Lead Security Advisor
After successfully establishing itself on the market, GObugfree continues to expand its security division. Seasoned manager and security expert Saner Çelebi joins the team as Lead Security Advisor for SME and enterprise customers. In this role, he offers GObugfree customers professional consulting in all security matters, especially with respect to a comprehensive approach for embedding bug bounty programs into existing security and vulnerability management systems.
15/12/2022
net+ tackles cybercrime head on, with a public Bug Bounty Program with GObugfree
net+, the French-speaking Swiss provider of telecommunications solutions, strengthens the protection of its IT systems with a public bug bounty program from GObugfree. With the help of over 900 "Friendly Hackers", net+ puts its IT systems through their paces and benefits from the swarm intelligence and creativity of a community of security experts.
13/12/2022
Why Threema believes in bug bounty programs and pays up to CHF 10’000 for critical findings
Since May 2022, Threema GmbH, developer of the well-known secure Swiss messenger service, has been collaborating with GObugfree to secure its products, Threema and Threema Work. The company recently increased the bounty level for critical findings from CHF 4’000 to CHF 10’000, underlying Threema’s commitment to cybersecurity, as well as its confidence in the capabilities of trusted friendly hackers and experienced IT security experts to thoroughly test Threema’s open source products.
08/12/2022
Agile security measures for agile business models
At Agile Leadership Day, Christina Kistler, CCO and Rolf Wagner, COO of GObugfree AG spoke about the increasing threat of cybercrime and how agile security approaches such as Shift Left, Continuous Testing with Bug Bounty and Zero Trust Architecture can provide companies with proactive, holistic and systemic protection.
30/11/2022
Penetration Testing & Bug Bounty: Key components of your cyber security toolbox
In the October 27, 2022 panel discussion, security experts debated two tools that lead to increased cyber resilience: Pentesting and Bug Bounty.
09/11/2022
Not cracked yet - fidentity Liveness Challenge prize money still up for grabs
On Nov 3-4, 2022, during 36 hours, more than 100 Friendly Hackers tried to bypass the artificial intelligence of the fidentity system. The system's not been cracked yet.
04/11/2022
Pentesting and/or Bug Bounty Program?
Are you interested in finding out more about pentesting and bug bounty programs? Come to the Cybero Expert talk on October 27 to hear the pros and cons of each approach. The expert panel includes cyllective founder Sophus Siegenthaler, GObugfree co-founder Michael Schläpfer and security researcher Antoine Neuenschwander.
19/10/2022
First GObugfree Hacking Challenge - Prepare for Glory
It's on now! Put your skills and creativity to use in the new GObugfree Hacking Challenge. Pretend to be one of the target figures and beat the fidentity liveness check. Prizes of up to CHF 4'000 are up for grabs. GO Hack!
10/10/2022
GObugfree: Guaranteed Swiss
GObugfree is the first bug bounty platform to be awarded the swiss made software label. Christian Walter, Managing Partner at swiss made software talks about the importance of the label and why companies should pay closer attention to where their software comes from.
08/09/2022
GObugfree expands Advisory Board with business consultant Stefan Bürzle and ecosystem specialist Ralph Hutter
Stefan Bürzle and Ralph Hutter bring further expertise to the GObugfree Advisory Board after the two bug bounty specialists Andreas Schneider and Matthias Jauslin. Bürzle is the link to the world of finance and business, while Hutter, as HWZ course director, provides the connection to the Swiss education landscape and brings his ecosystem expertise to the table.
23/08/2022
GObugfree now has an advisory board: Bug Bounty experts Andreas Schneider and Matthias Jauslin join the start-up.
The IT security start-up GObugfree was able to win over two bug bounty pioneers as consultants. Find out more about Andreas Schneider and Matthias Jauslin - and how they assess the potential of GObugfree.
30/06/2022
New CEO for the next development stage of GObugfree
Pawel Kowalski will be devoting himself fully to product development in future. The experienced founder and entrepreneur Phil Huber takes over as managing director.
22/06/2022
Webinar: Agile Security Measures for Business Models in E-Commerce
At the Handelsverband.SWISS webinar, Pawel Kowalski, CEO & Co-Founder of GObugfree, will show you how existing security measures can be effectively supplemented by the swarm intelligence of a community of trusted hackers to counter new risks.
24/05/2022
Threema now relies on the Swiss bug bounty platform from GObugfree and makes its messenger app even more secure
The manufacturer of the well-known secure Swiss messenger, Threema GmbH, is now working with GObugfree to secure its products, Threema and Threema Work.
03/05/2022
Agile business models require agile security measures
This was the title of GObugfree Co-Founder and Chief Hacking Officer Michael Schläpfer's Best Practice Speech at the Swiss Cyber Security Days 2022 (SCSD). The balance of the conference also clearly shows that Switzerland is in a race to catch up in the area of cyber security and new security approaches are required.
14/04/2022
GObugfree is ready to take off - the management is complete
Marketing and sales expert Christina Kistler completes the management team of GObugfree as Chief Commercial Officer and becomes a partner.
22/03/2022
GObugfree is Gold Sponsor of the Swiss Cyber Security Days
The Swiss Cyber Security Days is one of the country's most important conferences in the field of IT security. GObugfree co-founder Michael Schläpfer will be there to show how SMEs can also protect themselves against cybercrime in an increasingly digital world.
16/03/2022
BugBountyHub is now called GObugfree
New name, same mission: protecting businesses against cyberattacks thanks to crowd intelligence
10/03/2022
GObugfree opens the first public IoT bug bounty program to PlaceB
PlaceB offers a large network of self-storage units at various locations in Switzerland. Using the cell phone, which acts as a key, customers can easily open the doors to the rented storage space with the sliding button or even give access permission to the storage space to family members and friends with a few clicks of the mouse.
24/02/2022
A concentrated load of digital know-how for the BugBountyHub board of directors
Twint-Co founder Thierry Kneissler and placeB founder Terry Fehlmann strengthen our IT security start-up on a strategic level
16/02/2022
Bug Bounty – Miracle cure or marketing hype?
What can bug bounties do, and what are their limitations? Are they a panacea or just the latest IT buzzword? We try to get to grips with this new approach to IT security.
13/05/2021
Bug Bounty – Bug-tracking hackers or bounty hunter 2.0
Hear the term "bounty hunter" and we automatically think of the Wild West – catchphrases like "Dead or Alive!" familiar from movies such as Django Unchained or For a Few Dollars More.
16/02/2021