Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched its first-ever Bug Bounty Challenge 2026, marking a major step toward strengthening the security of the country’s digital identity infrastructure. The initiative aims to protect national ID systems from rising cyber threats while promoting ethical hacking and cybersecurity innovation among local talent.
The Bug Bounty Challenge has been developed in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT). Through this joint effort, NADRA seeks to build a more resilient cybersecurity framework for Pakistan’s expanding digital identity ecosystem.
Purpose of the Bug Bounty Challenge
As digital public services continue to grow, safeguarding sensitive citizen data has become a national priority. By inviting ethical hackers, university students, and cybersecurity professionals to responsibly identify system vulnerabilities, NADRA aims to detect and address weaknesses before they can be exploited by malicious actors.
This controlled and lawful approach reflects NADRA’s commitment to transparency, public trust, and proactive cyber defense.
Competition Format & Process
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The challenge is team-based and focuses on advanced security testing
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Participants must follow ethical hacking standards and responsible disclosure practices
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Regional rounds will begin on January 27, 2026
Host Universities
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GIKI, Swabi
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NUST, Islamabad
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UET, Lahore
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NED University, Karachi
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BUITEMS, Quetta
The regional format is designed to engage talent from across the country and raise nationwide cybersecurity awareness.
Final Round & Rewards
The final round and closing ceremony will be held at NADRA Headquarters in Islamabad. Winning teams will receive attractive prizes, with details to be announced through NADRA’s official social media platforms. The initiative is also supported by the Pakistan Digital Authority, underlining its national significance.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Digital ID System
The Bug Bounty Challenge comes amid broader reforms at NADRA aimed at modernizing the national identity framework. Recent advancements include:
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Contactless fingerprint scanning
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Iris and facial recognition technologies
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Improved verification and anti-fraud mechanisms
These upgrades are designed to enhance accuracy, security, and accessibility of identity services.
A Forward-Looking Cybersecurity Initiative
By launching the Bug Bounty Challenge 2026, NADRA is adopting a “security-by-design” approach—embedding protection into systems from the outset rather than reacting after breaches occur. The initiative not only strengthens Pakistan’s digital defenses but also helps develop a skilled cybersecurity workforce for the future.
Overall, the Bug Bounty Challenge represents a significant step toward securing Pakistan’s digital identity infrastructure while empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
