Microsoft Expands Bug Bounty Program: Understanding the New “In Scope By Default” Initiative
Microsoft Corp. has revealed a significant adjustment to its bug bounty program, introducing a framework termed “In Scope By Default.” This development marks a strategic shift in how the tech company approaches coordinated vulnerability disclosure, enhancing security measures for its online services.
Comprehensive Coverage for All Online Services
With the updated program, every Microsoft online service will be automatically eligible for bug bounty awards from the moment it is launched. This stands in contrast to the previous structure, which limited scope definitions to specific products. Such limitations often led to confusion among security researchers and restricted the types of vulnerabilities that could be reported and rewarded.
By adopting an “In Scope By Default” approach, Microsoft aims to simplify participation in its bug bounty program. This not only makes it easier for researchers to engage but also ensures that critical vulnerabilities are swiftly identified and addressed, regardless of their origins.
Inclusion of Third-Party and Open-Source Components
One of the more groundbreaking aspects of the new bug bounty scope is its inclusion of vulnerabilities arising from third-party and open-source components integrated into Microsoft’s services. This means that security researchers can now receive bounty rewards for identifying flaws in external libraries, dependencies, or open-source packages that contribute to the functionality of Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure.
This represents a paradigm shift in how vulnerabilities are perceived within the tech ecosystem. Since many modern applications rely heavily on third-party code, addressing vulnerabilities originating there is crucial for a comprehensive security strategy.
A More Efficient Reporting Process
Tom Gallagher, the vice president of engineering at the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC), underscores the strategic importance of this change. He emphasized that the updates are not merely administrative; rather, they are designed to reflect real-world risks more accurately. Gallagher noted that by including all online services in the bug bounty program by default, Microsoft seeks to reduce reporting delays and minimize confusion among researchers. This allows them to concentrate efforts on vulnerabilities that significantly impact customer security.
Gallagher stated, “If Microsoft’s online services are impacted by vulnerabilities in third-party code, including open source, we want to know.” This openness not only encourages responsible disclosure but also raises the overall security landscape.
Enhanced Collaboration and Security Research
The policy modification also facilitates better collaboration between Microsoft and researchers focusing on third-party vulnerabilities. Now, the company can assist in crafting fixes or support maintainers when issues in external codebases materially affect its services. By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, Microsoft is effectively increasing the quality of defense across its software ecosystem.
Industry Response and Anticipated Outcomes
Under the new framework, all new Microsoft online services will benefit from bug bounty coverage from day one, significantly streamlining the process for security professionals tasked with identifying vulnerabilities within Microsoft’s vast portfolio. Millions of existing services that previously required manual approval for bounty eligibility will also be automatically included, thereby broadening the program’s effectiveness.
This approach aligns with Microsoft’s overarching security philosophy in an AI- and cloud-oriented environment, where vulnerabilities can arise at the intersections of various components. Gallagher points out that vulnerabilities often emerge at the seams where different systems and code interact, making the need for comprehensive coverage all the more pressing.
Last year alone, Microsoft’s bug bounty program and its Zero Day Quest live-hacking event awarded over $17 million to researchers for impactful discoveries. With the new “In Scope By Default” initiative, the company anticipates a further increase in eligibility, particularly for areas related to its own domains, cloud services, and third-party or open-source code.
Guidelines for Participation
Participating researchers are expected to adhere to Microsoft’s Rules of Engagement for Responsible Security Research. This ensures that customer privacy and data protection remain paramount, even as researchers contribute to coordinated vulnerability disclosures.
By expanding the scope of its bug bounty program, Microsoft aims to elevate the standard of security measures, addressing vulnerabilities that could potentially impact millions of users globally. The initiative reflects a proactive approach to risk management while fostering a collaborative ethic amongst security researchers and Microsoft itself.
