Network security, or NetSec, is a fast-paced science. By studying cryptography and online networks, we can understand how the Internet evolves.
Cryptography is how two humans communicate via technology as a conduit. From grade school secret notes to the 2016 election hacked emails, network security techniques are ever more complex and vital.
Network security research is more than just algorithms for encryption. Cryptography is also how we transform and transport data, develop new protocols for communication, and pick out patterns from randomness. If social engineering is the interface of technology and humans, then this challenge grant is aimed at exploring new interfaces.
Compared with the amounts of money invested in hardware security, it seems like there aren't enough smart people working on network security. We'd like to see projects examining patterns behind how vulnerabilities are discovered, industry practices and their implications, and explorations for promising future encryption methods.
In particular, questions we are interested in include:
This grant is for projects that launch campaigns by Dec 19, 2016. The project that ends with the most backers will receive an additional $500 grant. Eligible projects must be approved before the launch deadline.