Samsung Unveils $1 Million Bounty Program for Exploiting Code Execution Flaws

Samsung has dramatically expanded its bug bounty program to bolster mobile security.

The company now offers rewards of up to $1 million for researchers who identify severe vulnerabilities in its mobile devices, especially those that enable arbitrary code execution on highly privileged targets. This initiative is part of Samsung’s Important Scenario Vulnerability Program (ISVP), which zeroes in on critical issues that could have substantial effects on their products. The program is particularly interested in:

  • Arbitrary code execution on privileged targets.
  • Unlocking devices and extracting all user data.
  • Installing unauthorized applications.
  • Circumventing device protection mechanisms.

The top reward of $1 million is available for remote arbitrary code execution vulnerabilities affecting Knox Vault, Samsung’s secure storage environment for sensitive information. Other noteworthy rewards include:

  • Up to $400,000 for remote code execution vulnerabilities in TEEGRIS OS.
  • Up to $300,000 for vulnerabilities in Rich OS.
  • Up to $400,000 for unlocking devices and extracting full user data prior to the first unlock.

To be eligible for these substantial rewards, researchers must:

  • Submit reports that meet the Good Report Bonus criteria.
  • Provide a buildable exploit demonstrating a successful attack on one or more Important Scenarios.
  • Ensure the exploit is effective on the latest security update for the most recent flagship devices (Galaxy S and Z series).
  • Demonstrate that the exploit works without requiring elevated privileges.

This enhancement of bounties underscores the critical importance of mobile security amid increasingly advanced cyber threats. Samsung invites security researchers to uncover and report serious vulnerabilities to prevent potential breaches and safeguard user data.

This initiative continues Samsung’s dedication to mobile security, building on its Mobile Security Rewards Program, which has been operational since 2016. The program has evolved to include 38 Samsung mobile devices, receiving regular monthly and quarterly security updates, and various Samsung Mobile Services like Bixby, Samsung Account, Samsung Pay, and Samsung Pass.

By significantly increasing the reward potential, Samsung is not only drawing more security researchers to identify vulnerabilities but also demonstrating its commitment to maintaining high security standards in an ever-complex digital landscape.

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