As our company hosts servers, we have a public Security Policy and a security.txt file for ethical hackers to disclose vulnerabilities responsibly: https://handbook.dude.fi/security-policy
Because of this, I receive quite a few reports, most of them ineligible. I've also run into some "security experts" getting upset about not receiving a bounty for a non-issue or putting heavy pressure on payments for valid ones. It often feels unfair, like I'm being held hostage.
That's why replies like the one I just received warm my heart so much:
"Thank you very much for the clarification and for taking quick action to remove the DNS record. I appreciate the transparency and the kind offer as well.
I'd prefer to donate the amount to a child support charity instead. You’re very welcome to donate it on my behalf to any such organization of your choice."
Donation made. Thank you, stranger. Kindness costs nothing.
#Security #SysOps #SysAdmin #SecOps