Bug Bounty Programs as a Security Layer

This technical report discusses the role of bug bounty programs in enhancing software security. It argues that software security cannot be reduced to mere compliance certifications or penetration testing, which are limited by their scope and timelines. The document outlines how bug bounty programs provide continuous scrutiny from a global community of specialized researchers, thereby creating a more realistic and ongoing assessment of a product's security. It emphasizes that while compliance certifications are essential for establishing a security-conscious governance framework, they do not guarantee that a product is free from exploitable vulnerabilities. The report details the structural limitations of penetration testing and advocates for the integration of bug bounty programs as a necessary layer that complements existing security measures. It also provides guidance for security leaders on how to evaluate vendors based on their commitment to continuous adversarial scrutiny, rather than solely on compliance metrics.