In our current era of immense digital interconnection, the role of software has become paramount, encompassing sectors ranging from finance to public utilities. Such an interconnected tapestry, while ensuring seamless operations, also presents a widened arena for potential cyberattacks, a concern not lost on DARPA experts. This increased vulnerability is especially pertinent to critical infrastructures, areas that currently suffer from a deficit of tools robust enough to defend these expansive systems. Yet, there's hope that emerging technologies could be the key to bridging this gap.
Perri Adams, who oversees the AIxCC program for DARPA, shared her insights, "In the recent past, there's been a surge in AI-enabled capabilities that hold promise. When harnessed responsibly, these technological advances have the potential to be monumental in addressing pivotal cybersecurity concerns. Our vision is for AI-driven systems to autonomously shield critical software, extending cybersecurity benefits not just nationally, but globally."
DARPA's AIxCC will incorporate two distinct paths for participation: the Funded Track and the Open Track. Aspiring participants of the Funded Track will be shortlisted from proposals presented to the Small Business Innovation Research. The lucky seven from this pool will receive funding to participate. On the other hand, the Open Track will allow participants to register through the competition's website, and they will continue without financial backing from DARPA.
All participating teams, irrespective of their track, will engage in a qualifying event during the semifinal stage. The creme de la creme, roughly 20 top-scoring teams, will move on to the semifinal competition, where the best five will not only bag monetary prizes but will also qualify for the grand finale. The climax of the competition will see the top three teams winning additional rewards.
A distinctive aspect of AIxCC is its collaborative spirit. DARPA has partnered with premier AI companies such as Anthropic, Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI, all of whom will provide their state-of-the-art technologies and know-how to the competitors. To further bolster the competition, the Open Source Security Foundation (OpenSSF) will act as an advisor, guiding teams on building AI systems that can address critical cybersecurity areas, particularly focusing on the protection of the predominantly open-source software that makes up about 80% of modern software stacks.
The backdrop for the AIxCC competitions will be DEF CON, complemented with events at Black Hat USA. Both these platforms are globally renowned cybersecurity conferences that magnetize a global community of experts, enthusiasts, and onlookers to Las Vegas every August. The entire challenge will be broken down into two stages: the semifinal slated for 2024 and the grand finale in 2025, both of which will take place at DEF CON in Las Vegas.
Concluding her remarks, Adams opined, "AIxCC is not just another competition. Its success could pave the way for AI to play a pivotal role in fortifying society's digital defenses, ensuring a safer future for all."
For complete details about the competition, including the timeline to register, eligibility information, rules and more, visit here
Related Links
AI Cyber Challenge
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
Cyberwar - Internet Security News - Systems and Policy Issues
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