Microsoft has initiated Zero Day Quest, an expanded bug bounty program aimed at identifying significant security vulnerabilities in its cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This initiative reflects Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to enhancing cybersecurity measures across its diverse range of products and services. By engaging a global community of security researchers, Microsoft seeks to proactively address potential threats before they can be exploited.
Microsoft’s new program builds on its existing bug bounty efforts, significantly increasing incentives for discovering AI-related vulnerabilities. Historically, Microsoft’s bug bounty programs have focused on a variety of its products, but Zero Day Quest marks a targeted effort to bolster security specifically within its AI and cloud platforms. This strategic shift underscores the growing importance of securing advanced technologies in an increasingly digital landscape.
What is Zero Day Quest?
Zero Day Quest is an extension of Microsoft’s bug bounty programs, specifically designed to uncover high-impact security flaws in its cloud and AI technologies. The program offers doubled bounty rewards for eligible AI vulnerabilities from November 19, 2024, to January 19, 2025. Additionally, participants gain direct access to Microsoft’s AI engineers and the AI Red Team, which specializes in testing AI systems for potential security weaknesses.
How does the program work?
Under Zero Day Quest, researchers can submit reports on identified vulnerabilities across several Microsoft platforms, including Azure, Microsoft Identity, M365, Dynamics 365, and Power Platform. The program also features bonus bounty multipliers for issues deemed valid, important, or critical during the challenge period. Successful participants may earn a place in an exclusive onsite hacking event at Microsoft’s headquarters in Redmond, Washington, scheduled for 2025.
What are the incentives for researchers?
In addition to increased monetary rewards, Zero Day Quest offers researchers the opportunity to collaborate closely with Microsoft’s security teams.
“Zero Day Quest will provide new opportunities for the security community to work hand in hand with Microsoft engineers and security researchers — bringing together the best minds in security to share, learn, and build community as we work to keep everyone safe,”
stated Tom Gallagher, Vice President of Engineering at the Microsoft Security Response Center. This collaboration aims to foster a more secure environment across Microsoft’s extensive product suite.
Enhanced security measures are shared through the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) program, enabling the broader industry to benefit from the insights gained.
“This event is not just about finding vulnerabilities; it’s about fostering new and deepening existing partnerships between the Microsoft Security Response Center, product teams, and external researchers — raising the security bar for all,”
Gallagher added. By doing so, Microsoft not only addresses immediate security concerns but also contributes to long-term industry standards.
The launch of Zero Day Quest signifies Microsoft’s dedication to elevating its security frameworks and building stronger relationships within the cybersecurity community. By incentivizing the discovery and resolution of vulnerabilities, Microsoft aims to protect its infrastructure against evolving threats and past security issues, ensuring robust defenses for its users.
