New Hacker Contest “Matrix Cup” Becomes Largest Cybersecurity Competition in Eastern Hemisphere
In May 2024, in Tsindao, the Shandun province, the new hacker contest “Matrix Cup” was opened. This large-scale event, organized by the 360 Digital Security group and Beijing Huayunan Information Technology Co. (also known as VUL.AI), has become the largest cybersecurity competition in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Competition Structure and Tasks
MATRIX CUP includes five different tests covering all main directions of hacker competitions: three tracks for vulnerability search, one Capture-the-Flag (CTF) style test, and one test using artificial intelligence (AI). The total prize fund for the competition amounted to 18 million yuan (about 2.48 million US dollars), with additional awards for AI and CTF tests.
- General Products Contest – includes Western operating systems, browsers, network devices, and mobile devices.
- Domestic Software and Hardware Products Contest – includes Chinese operating systems, routers, and VPN.
- Competition of the original detection of vulnerability – focused on Chinese-made products.
Particular emphasis is placed on developing and supporting talents in the cybersecurity field, aligning with China’s goal to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and increase self-sufficiency in high technology.
Results of the competition revealed approximately 100 vulnerabilities in widely known software and hardware products, including several medium and highly hazardous vulnerabilities. The TZL team from the University of Tsinhua received recognition for finding a vulnerability in the virtualization control platform with the largest market share. The AAA team from the University of Zhejiang successfully hacked the system core of main mobile operating systems.
Matrix Cup is a key element in China’s cybersecurity strategy, focusing on identifying, training, and attracting top specialists in the field. The participation and achievements of university teams underscore the importance of the younger generation of cybersecurity professionals for the country’s future security.
Conclusion
MATRIX CUP contributes to the expanding ecosystem of hacker contests in China, offering opportunities for local security researchers. In the short term, this increases the pool of available vulnerabilities for government agencies, while in the long run, it advances China’s national cybersecurity capabilities.