Are Private Bug Bounty Programs Worth It? The Truth About Invites

Private bug bounty programs can feel like an exclusive VIP club. 🏅 Fewer hunters, smaller crowds, and maybe bigger payouts? But the reality is more complex. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and hidden truths behind private programs, and figure out if they’re worth your time.

Getting invited to a private bug bounty program feels like leveling up. Why?

🟢 Less Competition: Only invited researchers hunt, reducing the risk of duplicates.🟢 Higher Payout Potential: Smaller crowds might mean juicier rewards for impactful bugs.🟢 Direct Feedback: You’re more likely to get closer communication with the security team.

Sounds perfect, right? Well… not so fast.

Not every company goes private to spoil researchers with high payouts. Here’s why many companies choose private programs:

🟠 Limited Risk Appetite: They fear a public program will attract attackers or cause instability.🟠 Cost Control: Fewer researchers = fewer bugs = smaller payouts.🟠 Lack of Staff: Teams may not have enough resources to triage a flood of reports.🟠 Security “Training Wheels”: They use private…