Infosec glossary entry

CTF

CTF:
Capture The Flag

Capture The Flag (CTF) is a popular cybersecurity competition format that challenges participants to solve a series of security-related tasks in order to find hidden "flags." These flags are typically strings of text that serve as proof of completion for each task. CTF competitions can vary in format, ranging from individual or team-based events to real-time challenges and jeopardy-style formats where participants select from a variety of categories and difficulty levels. The tasks often cover a wide range of topics including web security, cryptography, reverse engineering, and binary exploitation.

The primary goal of CTF is to enhance participants' practical skills in cybersecurity, fostering a hands-on learning environment that encourages collaboration and problem-solving. By engaging in these challenges, individuals can gain valuable experience and knowledge that are directly applicable to real-world security scenarios. CTF events are not only a fun way to learn and practice cybersecurity skills, but they also help build a community of security enthusiasts and professionals who share a passion for protecting information systems from cyber threats.


By jean-christoph

March 5, 2025

blue team, career hacking, learning, simulation

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