2024 Year in review: Working together for better cybersecurity

GOvdp: A secure, free process for reporting vulnterabilities

In 2024, we launched GOvdp, Switzerland’s first free Vulnerability Disclosure Program. It provides businesses with a secure and structured process for reporting vulnerabilities. This is especially valuable for SMEs, which often lack the resources for comprehensive security audits. GOvdp bridges the gap between businesses and the hacker community, preventing accidental disclosures and reducing risks before they escalate.

Find out more about GOvdp

Double the leadership: How our Co-CEO model brings fresh perspectives

Another milestone was introducing our Co-CEO model. Christina Kistler and Marcel Eyer now share the leadership at GObugfree, reinforcing our commitment to diversity and innovation. This approach reflects the collective intelligence that thrives not just within our ethical hacker community but also within our leadership team. The Co-CEO model brings fresh energy to grow the company and better support SMEs in the DACH region in securing their digital infrastructure.

GOhack24: Hands-On Cybersecurity Through Learning and Action

Our second GOhack event was a huge success. With a bounty pool of CHF 65,000, 13 partner programs, and an expanded EDU track featuring dedicated tech and business talks, GOhack24 offered even more opportunities for businesses to learn from the ethical hacking community. The event focused on practical learning and sharing best practices in cybersecurity.

The Bug-Bounty Challenge and Hack-for-Good program not only allowed participants to test their skills but also supported a great cause. This year, proceeds from the Hack-for-Good initiative went to Save the Children—furthering GOhack's mission to promote responsible cybersecurity practices.

GOLearn: Making Cybersecurity Accessible

In 2024, our GOlearn webinars delivered practical insights into key cybersecurity topics, including:

Empowering Enterprise Security Risk Management This panel discussion highlighted how ESRM removes security barriers and promotes coordinated approaches. Key takeaway: “When things get too complex, they fail.” ESRM simplifies processes by treating security as a shared responsibility among stakeholders.
Securing Trust: Ethical hacking & background checks explained This session explored how ethical hacking not only identifies vulnerabilities but also builds trust. A bug bounty hunter emphasized, “Bug bounty hunters don’t have deadlines.” Their meticulous work is crucial to cybersecurity. The session also showed how background checks by Aequivalent can reduce risks and strengthen compliance.
Cyber Insurance: Essential or Overhyped? In a talk with Tobias Seitz (Helvetia), we discussed the benefits and limitations of cyber insurance. A standout quote: “Once data is lost, no insurance can bring it back.” Beyond financial coverage, cyber insurance provides access to crisis managers and IT experts—a vital advantage in emergencies.

Practical and Interactive: The Cyber Resilience Workshop

At the Cyber Resilience Workshop, leaders and decision-makers learned practical ways to make their organizations more resilient to cyberattacks. A highlight was the live demonstration of a ransomware attack, which underscored the importance of preventive measures like incident response plans and business continuity management. The workshop offered actionable insights and solutions to lower barriers and raise awareness.

GObugfree is part of the Cyber Resilience Alliance and proud to support such forward-thinking initiatives. We look forward to continuing to offer further practical workshops together with the Cyber Resilience Alliance in 2025.

Hacktober: Learning Meets Fun at Capture the Flag

In 2024, we joined Hacktober for the first time and hosted a Capture the Flag challenge at our office. Participants had the chance to test their ethical hacking skills and gain hands-on experience. The positive feedback showed just how valuable these events are, and we’re excited to work with the community again in 2025.

Collaboration for a secure future: Building knowledge and networks

2024 was a year of collaboration and exchange for GObugfree. We actively participated as speakers, partners, and attendees at top cybersecurity events like the Swiss Global Cyber Conference, DCONO, Cyberstorm, Women in Cyber, and Herhack. These events provided platforms to share knowledge, establish new partnerships, and exchange best practices.

Nurturing cyber talent: Practical training with the GObugfree platform

In partnership with SWITCH, we expanded our efforts to foster cyber talent through ROESTI 2024. As part of this initiative, we provided the GObugfree platform to give aspiring ethical hackers and students practical experience. Teams assessed cybersecurity at Swiss educational institutions—a unique opportunity to identify vulnerabilities, learn from each other, and contribute to digital safety. This builds on our ongoing collaboration with institutions like FHNW and FFHS, supporting the development of a secure digital future.