Microsoft has launched Zero Day Quest, an ambitious cybersecurity initiative designed to fortify the security of its cloud and AI platforms. This landmark program underscores Microsoft’s dedication to advancing global digital security while fostering collaborative innovation among researchers worldwide.The Zero Day Quest invites security experts and researchers from around the globe to participate in a dynamic two-part initiative. This includes a Global Research Challenge and an Exclusive Onsite Hacking Event. Running from November 19, 2024, to January 19, 2025, the program focuses on identifying critical vulnerabilities in Microsoft’s flagship platforms, including Azure, Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, and its AI ecosystem. By addressing key vulnerabilities in these critical systems, Microsoft aims to strengthen its position as a leader in cybersecurity while providing researchers with unparalleled opportunities to collaborate and innovate.
“This initiative provides an unparalleled opportunity for researchers to work directly with Microsoft engineers to identify critical vulnerabilities,” said Tom Gallagher, Vice President of Engineering at the Microsoft Security Response Center (MSRC). “By incentivizing impactful discoveries, we aim to elevate security standards globally.”
Lucrative Incentives and Exclusive Recognition
To motivate participation, Microsoft has introduced a series of compelling rewards:
- Double AI Bounties: Rewards for AI-related vulnerabilities will be doubled.
- Bounty Multipliers: Up to 50% additional rewards for critical issues, including Remote Code Execution and Elevation of Privilege flaws in cloud services.
The top 45 researchers from the global challenge will receive an all-expenses-paid invitation to the exclusive onsite Zero Day Quest Hacking Event at Microsoft’s Redmond campus in 2025. Additionally, the top 10 performers from Microsoft’s Azure, Dynamics, and Office 2024 leaderboards will also secure a spot at this prestigious event.
“This isn’t just about finding vulnerabilities,” added Gallagher. “It’s about fostering meaningful partnerships to drive security innovation.”
As AI systems increasingly become central to modern cybersecurity challenges, Zero Day Quest emphasizes AI-specific vulnerabilities. To aid researchers, Microsoft is providing access to its open-source Python Risk Identification Toolkit (PyRIT), a powerful tool for evaluating risks in generative AI systems. A dedicated PyRIT training session is scheduled for December 2, 2025.
Advancing Security Through Innovation
The Zero Day Quest aligns with Microsoft’s overarching vision of “security above all else,” uniting researchers and developers to proactively address an evolving threat landscape.“This is a pivotal moment for cybersecurity,” noted Gallagher. “Through the Zero Day Quest, we’re not just solving today’s challenges—we’re shaping the future of security.”
Security researchers, whether seasoned professionals or newcomers, are encouraged to participate in the Zero Day Quest. Full details on eligibility, rules, and rewards are available on the Microsoft Security Response Center website.
With over $4 million in potential bounties and a unique opportunity to collaborate with Microsoft’s engineering teams, the Zero Day Quest is setting new benchmarks in the cybersecurity industry. As threats become increasingly complex, Microsoft’s leadership in fostering innovation and global partnerships ensures a safer digital future for businesses and users alike.
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