NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 Launched
The National Database and Registration Authority has officially launched the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026, marking its first national-level cybersecurity competition. This initiative focuses on improving the security of Pakistan’s digital identity systems by encouraging responsible vulnerability identification and ethical hacking practices.
The program is being conducted in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission and the National Cyber Emergency Response Team. Through this partnership, NADRA aims to create a strong cybersecurity culture while increasing public confidence in national digital infrastructure.
Key highlights of the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 include:
- First-ever bug bounty initiative by NADRA
- Focus on national digital identity security
- Collaboration with HEC and National CERT
- Emphasis on ethical and responsible vulnerability reporting
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Objectives of the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026
The main goal of the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 is to strengthen Pakistan’s cybersecurity framework by allowing skilled individuals to assess systems in a controlled and ethical manner. This initiative helps identify potential weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious actors.
Another important objective is talent development. By engaging students and professionals, NADRA is creating learning opportunities that promote ethical hacking, practical cybersecurity skills, and responsible disclosure standards across the country.
The objectives of the challenge include:
- Enhancing cybersecurity resilience
- Promoting ethical security practices
- Encouraging responsible vulnerability disclosure
- Building trust in digital identity systems
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Collaboration with HEC and National Cyber Emergency Response Team
The NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 is being organized with strategic support from the Higher Education Commission and the National Cyber Emergency Response Team. This collaboration ensures academic involvement and technical oversight throughout the competition.
Through this joint effort, universities receive direct exposure to real-world cybersecurity assessments. At the same time, national cyber authorities help ensure that all activities follow international ethical and security standards.
Key partners involved in the initiative:
- National Database and Registration Authority
- Higher Education Commission
- National Cyber Emergency Response Team
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Who Can Participate in the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026?
Participation in the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 is limited to selected universities and partner institutions associated with NADRA. The competition actively involves students, ethical hackers, and cybersecurity professionals from different regions of Pakistan.
By keeping the competition team-based, NADRA encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and knowledge sharing. This format reflects real cybersecurity environments where teamwork plays a critical role.
Eligible participants include:
- University students
- Ethical hackers
- Cybersecurity professionals
- Partner institutions of NADRA
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Regional Rounds and University Locations
Regional rounds of the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 will begin on 27 January 2026. These rounds will take place at major universities across Pakistan, allowing wide participation from different provinces.
The selected institutions represent Pakistan’s leading engineering and technology universities. Hosting regional rounds ensures equal access and promotes cybersecurity awareness nationwide.
| University | City |
|---|---|
| GIKI | Swabi |
| NUST | Islamabad |
| UET | Lahore |
| NED University | Karachi |
| BUITEMS | Quetta |
Team-Based Competition and Ethical Security Focus
The competition follows a structured, team-based format designed to simulate real cybersecurity assessment environments. Participants are required to identify vulnerabilities responsibly and report them according to defined ethical standards.
This approach helps reinforce professional conduct while preventing misuse of technical skills. NADRA’s focus remains on strengthening systems rather than exploiting weaknesses.
Core principles of the competition include:
- Ethical hacking only
- Responsible disclosure methods
- Controlled testing environments
- National cybersecurity protection
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Final Ceremony and National Impact
The concluding ceremony of the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026 will be held at NADRA Headquarters in Islamabad. The final date will be announced after the completion of regional rounds.
This initiative is expected to have a long-term impact on Pakistan’s cybersecurity ecosystem. By nurturing skilled professionals and encouraging ethical practices, NADRA is investing in the future security of the country’s digital identity infrastructure.
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FAQs
What is the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026?
It is NADRA’s first national cybersecurity competition focused on ethical vulnerability identification and digital identity security.
Who is organizing the NADRA Bug Bounty Challenge 2026?
The challenge is organized by NADRA in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission and the National Cyber Emergency Response Team.
When do the regional rounds begin?
Regional rounds will start on 27 January 2026 at selected universities across Pakistan.
Who can participate in the competition?
Students, ethical hackers, and cybersecurity professionals from selected universities and partner institutions can participate.
Where will the final ceremony be held?
The concluding ceremony will take place at NADRA Headquarters in Islamabad.
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