Microsoft is taking a big step towards improving security with the launch of Zero Day Quest, a new bug bounty event offering up to $4 million in rewards. This event, announced by the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC), aims to incentivize high-impact research in AI and cloud security—two areas critical to the company’s ecosystem. The initiative offers a unique opportunity for security researchers to work directly with Microsoft engineers and security experts, raising the bar for overall cybersecurity.
The quest kicks off with a research challenge where submissions related to specific vulnerabilities will earn increased rewards. AI-related vulnerabilities will be particularly rewarded with double bounty payouts, and researchers will also get exclusive access to Microsoft AI engineers and the AI Red Team. This collaboration aims to enhance AI security across the board and foster stronger community partnerships.
As part of Microsoft’s Secure Future Initiative (SFI), Zero Day Quest aligns with the company’s Coordinated Vulnerability Disclosure (CVD) approach, encouraging transparency. Once vulnerabilities are mitigated, researchers are encouraged to publicly share their findings, supported by Microsoft’s blogs, podcasts, and videos to ensure that the entire security community benefits from the discoveries. Additionally, Microsoft commits to transparently sharing critical vulnerabilities through the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) program, even if no immediate customer action is needed.
Zero Day Quest is not just about finding vulnerabilities—it’s about creating an ongoing partnership between Microsoft and the global security community, improving the safety of digital environments for everyone. As the event continues, Microsoft aims to foster collaboration that will have long-term benefits for AI and cloud security.
To get involved, researchers can register for a session with the Microsoft AI Red Team and begin submitting their research to join the journey of securing tomorrow’s technology.
Leave a Reply