Cybersecurity rookies and experts from across the globe are invited to the partake in competitions, conferences, and courses set to take place online February 20 and 21.

The 24h@CTF is a free online event set to take place February 20 and 21, with the overall goal of demystifying the world of cybersecurity, while also allowing more advanced cyber-experts to hone their knowledge. Participants will be able to meet virtually with cybersecurity experts as well as potential employers from all over the world.

The 24h@CTF – a global event for everyone.

The competition involves exploiting software and system vulnerabilities so as to “break into” computers to retrieve flags, each of which is evidence of a successful intrusion.

Courses offered during 24h@CTF range from easy to difficult, and will require versatility, technical skills and computers knowledge in terms of networking, computer security, coding systems, network and web security audits, cryptography as well as software and computer systems development. As an example of a beginner course, CTF101 will introduce novice participants to the basics, and provide step by step coaching throughout the event.

The event is also golden opportunity for computer and cybersecurity buffs who want to hone their skills – but in a way that doesn’t break the law. In addition to learning about various "cyber" sector professions, participants will also have the opportunity to expand their professional networks.

Networking and identifying talent are some of the event’s main objectives, notes Full Professor Nora Bouhalia Cuppens, from Polytechnique Montreal’s Department of Computer and Software Engineering. “We wanted the event to be an opportunity to identify talent and encourage professional expansion,” she remarks.

Over $1,000 in prizes

To participate in this free event, participants must first register via Eventbrite’s bilingual website: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/billets-les-24-h-du-ctf-24-hour-ctf-139015502109

Once registration has been confirmed, a link will be sent to participants that will enable them to virtually access PolyHx's infrastructure in order to meet the challenges of cyber capture the flag. Registration will also allow participants to access Polytechnique's Zoom platform, where they can attend a series of conferences and consult various resources that have been made available.

Cash prizes will also be awarded during the event.

Learn more

Event registration (bilingual website)
Professor Nora Bouhalia Cuppens’ expertise
PolyHx Student Team website
Department of Computer and Software Engineering website (In French)
Cybersecurity and Cyber-resilience website