Cybersecurity CTF + Treasure Hunt

A unique Cybersecurity CTF + Treasure Hunt that takes participants beyond the screen by combining Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges with a physical campus treasure hunt.

The event consists of 10 CTF rooms and 10 physical checkpoints spread across the campus.

Teams must first solve a CTF room to obtain a clue. The clue will lead them to a specific physical location on campus. Once they reach the location, they must identify and interact with the designated volunteers present at the checkpoint. After the team is verified, the volunteers will provide access to the next CTF room, allowing the team to continue the challenge.

This process continues until the team completes all 10 CTF rooms and physical checkpoints.

The challenges cover various areas of cybersecurity, including Cryptography, Networking, Digital Forensics, OSINT, Steganography, Web Security, and more. The event is designed to be beginner-friendly but challenging, focusing on logical thinking, teamwork, cybersecurity knowledge, and real-world problem solving.

How the Event Works

1. Solve the CTF Room

Teams begin by solving a cybersecurity challenge in a CTF room.

2. Obtain the Clue

Successfully solving the challenge reveals a clue pointing towards the next physical checkpoint.

3. Find the Physical Location

Teams must interpret the clue and physically travel to the corresponding location on campus.

4. Meet the Volunteers

At the location, designated volunteers will verify the team and their progress.

5. Unlock the Next CTF Room

After successful verification, the volunteers will provide the information/access required to proceed to the next CTF room.

6. Repeat the Process

Teams continue this CTF → Clue → Location → Verification → Next CTF cycle until all 10 checkpoints are completed.

Rules & Regulations

• Teams must consist of 2–4 members.
• Each team should have at least one laptop/system.
• Participants are strongly encouraged to bring and use their own laptop/system.
• Teams that do not have their own laptop/system will be provided with a college-provided system, subject to availability.
• Participants using their own systems are responsible for bringing their chargers, adapters, and other required accessories.
• The event consists of 10 CTF rooms and 10 physical checkpoints.
• Teams must follow the designated sequence of challenges and checkpoints.
• A team must successfully solve a CTF room before proceeding to the corresponding physical checkpoint.
• The clue obtained from a CTF room will lead the team to the next physical location.
• Teams must physically travel to the location indicated by the clue.
• Teams must interact with the designated volunteers at each checkpoint.
• Only after verification by the volunteers will a team be allowed to proceed to the next CTF room.
• Basic internet research is allowed unless a challenge specifically states otherwise.
• AI tools cannot be used to directly solve or submit challenge answers/flags.
• Sharing clues, flags, answers, or solutions with other teams is strictly prohibited.
• No unauthorized access, network attacks, scanning, or tampering with college systems or networks.
• Participants must not enter restricted areas or damage, hide, move, or tamper with event clues or materials.
• Hints may be available and may carry score/time penalties.
• The fastest completion alone does not determine the winner; total score and applicable penalties will be considered.
• The organizers' decision regarding scoring, disputes, and disqualification will be final.
• Participants must follow all campus safety rules while moving between checkpoints.
• Teams are responsible for the safety and security of their personal belongings and equipment.

System Requirement

Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop/system for the best experience and to use a setup they are familiar with.

Teams that do not have access to their own laptop/system will be provided with a college system, subject to availability.

Participants bringing their own systems should ensure that their devices are fully charged and ready for the event.

Prizes

1st Prize — ₹10,000

2nd Prize — ₹5,000

3rd Prize — ₹2,000