HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge 2025 Achieves a Record 40% Surge in Participation

First-Ever Attack-Defence Simulation Aligns with Real Corporate Needs Setting a New Benchmark for Local Cybersecurity Competitions

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – As cyberattacks grow increasingly complex, cybersecurity has become a critical domain of global concern and a talent shortage. According to the latest “Hong Kong Cybersecurity Outlook 2026”, there will be a shortage of 3.5 million cybersecurity professionals globally by 2021. This alarming statistic has prompted the need for innovative solutions to address the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.

In light of this, the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre (HKCERT) has recently organized the first-ever Attack-Defence Simulation as part of their annual Capture The Flag (CTF) Challenge. The event, which was held on 10 February 2026, saw participation from over 200 teams, including professionals from the cybersecurity industry, students, and even government agencies.

The Attack-Defence Simulation is a unique competition that simulates real-world scenarios, where participants are required to defend their infrastructure against simulated cyberattacks while trying to infiltrate and exploit the systems of their opponents. This simulation aligns with the current needs of the corporate world, where cybersecurity professionals are expected to have both defensive and offensive skills to protect their organizations from cyber threats.

The event was a huge success, with a record 40% surge in participation compared to the previous year. This reflects the growing interest and awareness of the importance of cybersecurity in Hong Kong. The competition not only provided a platform for participants to showcase their skills and knowledge but also served as a valuable learning experience for all involved.

One of the key highlights of the event was the participation of professionals from various cybersecurity companies, who were impressed by the level of competition and the skills demonstrated by the participants. This event not only showcased the talent and potential of the participants but also acted as a networking opportunity for professionals in the industry.

The success of the Attack-Defence Simulation has set a new benchmark for local cybersecurity competitions. It has proven to be an effective way to identify and nurture talent in the field of cybersecurity. With the ever-increasing threat of cyberattacks, it is crucial for organizations to have a skilled team of professionals who can defend against these threats. The CTF Challenge has provided a platform for the development and recognition of these skills.

In addition to the competition, the event also featured talks and workshops by industry experts, providing valuable insights into the latest trends and techniques in cybersecurity. This not only helped the participants to enhance their skills but also provided an opportunity for them to learn from the best in the industry.

The HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge 2025 has not only achieved its goal of promoting cybersecurity awareness but has also successfully attracted more individuals to join the field. With the increasing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals, events like these are essential in bridging the talent gap and preparing the next generation of cyber defenders.

The success of the event has also garnered attention from other countries, with several international organizations expressing interest in replicating the Attack-Defence Simulation in their own competitions. This further solidifies Hong Kong’s position as a leader in the field of cybersecurity.

In conclusion, the HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge 2025 has proven to be a groundbreaking event that has set a new standard for local cybersecurity competitions. It not only provided a platform for participants to showcase their skills but also served as a valuable learning experience for all involved. With the growing threat of cyberattacks, events like these are crucial in nurturing and recognizing talent in the field of cybersecurity and ensuring a safe and secure digital future for Hong Kong and the world.