Why Google’s New Bug Bounty Program for Mobile Apps is a Game Changer

Google Launches Bug Bounty Program for Mobile Applications

Google has launched the Mobile VRP (vulnerability rewards program), a bug bounty program aimed at detecting and reporting vulnerabilities found in the company’s mobile applications. This new reward program will run alongside the Google Devices and Android security reward programs, which allow security researchers to identify security problems in Android OS, Pixel phones, Google Nest, and Fitbit devices and earn rewards.

Scope of the Program

The new Google Mobile VRP program is specifically designed for first-party Android applications, which fall into three different categories. Tier 1 apps include Google’s own Play Services, Chrome, Gmail, Cloud, Chrome Remote Desktop software, and Android Google Search App (AGSA). Furthermore, apps published by Google’s industrial arms like Developed with Google, Research at Google, Red Hot Labs, Google Samples, Nest Labs Inc., Fitbit LLC, Waymo LLC, and Waze are also within scope.

Google is interested in different types of reports, but it is specifically looking for reports describing flaws that may lead to arbitrary code execution and theft of sensitive data such as personal credentials. Other security vulnerabilities that will be rewarded under the program include path traversal, orphaned permissions, intent redirections, and unsafe usage of pending intents.

Pay-Structure

The internet giant is willing to pay up to $30,000 for vulnerabilities in Tier 1 apps that can be exploited remotely without user interaction to achieve arbitrary code execution. Researchers reporting issues in Tier 2 and Tier 3 apps may earn up to $25,000 and $20,000, respectively, for similar vulnerabilities. Flaws leading to sensitive data theft and other types of issues will be awarded between $750 and $7,500. However, Google notes it may also award $1,000 bonuses for surprising vulnerabilities or exceptional writeups, which motivates security researchers to participate in the program.

Findings Presentation

Researchers are encouraged to present their findings in a succinct manner, adding a short proof-of-concept (PoC) if possible. Furthermore, as a safety precaution, researchers interested in participating in the Mobile VRP should only target their own accounts. Researchers should submit their findings through Google’s report page and additional information on the program can be found on the new Mobile VRP page.

Implications of Bug Bounty Programs

Bug bounty programs have proven to be an excellent way to safeguard companies and users from cyber-crime. These programs help security researchers locate and report vulnerabilities, allowing companies to mitigate them before they can be exploited. Furthermore, such programs not only detect software weaknesses, but they also help researchers gain insight into the flaws and improve software security. Between 2018 and 2019, bug bounty programs paid rewards to researchers in excess of $95 million.

Bug bounty programs have become an indispensable tool for security researchers as well. These programs are a source of income for security researchers. They can also help researchers and companies defend against cyber criminals by providing tools and information that they can use to uncover and remediate vulnerabilities. Major companies have adopted bug bounty programs in recent years, which can be seen as a positive trend.

Editorial

The launch of a Mobile VRP program for vulnerability reporting and rewarding is a great initiative by Google. This program will help Google to improve the security of its mobile applications, encourage security researchers and hackers worldwide to work positively towards security improvements, and motivate security researchers with rewards and bonuses.

Supporting such initiatives by Google is a great move for the cybersecurity community. As the world increasingly relies on technology, it is important to adopt practices that prioritize security. With the rise of cybercrime globally, such programs play an essential role in fortifying digital infrastructure and mitigating cyber attacks.

Advice

Bug bounty programs are a vital tool for securing digital infrastructure and provide opportunities for security researchers to earn a profit. Through these programs, security researchers can contribute towards the security robustness of the digital ecosystem while making a living from their skills. Google‘s Mobile VRP program can set an example for companies to follow to start their bug bounties to further safeguard their applications and digital infrastructure.

Users can help improve their own cybersecurity by keeping their devices and applications updated, using strong passwords, limiting their digital footprints, and being wary of unverified third-party applications.