CrackTheCode @ CUI

Concordia University, Irvine

March 22-23

Crack the Code (CTC) will take place CUI. Crack the Code is a FREE 24-hour hackathon at Concordia University for high school students interested in cybersecurity, machine learning, and web security!

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Tracks
Cyber in Depth
Coding Knowledge Required In This Track
Machine Learning Mayhem: Using AI to Battle Malware
About:
Artificial intelligence has become a popular and powerful tool that is emerging in many new industries. While cybersecurity has begun to use machine learning to diagnose systems and networks, it is still uncommon. Develop a solution powered by AI/ML that can combat modern-level threats.
Experience Recommended:
Grades 9-12
Prerequisites:
  • Solid foundation of AI concepts and programming
1st Place Prize:
Sceptre 22 inch 75Hz 1080P LED Monitor
2nd Place Prize:
Logitech Brio 101 Full HD 1080p Webcam
SafeSurf: Ensuring Online Integrity
About:
Every day, users face threats involving malware while surfing websites. In this track, we urge participants to investigate vulnerabilities and create new softwares to help users diagnose potential threats to their security online.
Experience Recommended:
Grades 9-12
Prerequisites:
  • Coding experience in any programming language
  • Knowledge of common vulnerabilities found on web pages
1st Place Prize:
Keychron V6 Wired Custom Mechanical Keyboard
2nd Place Prize:
Razer Basilisk V3 Customizable Ergonomic Gaming Mouse
Cyber at a Glance
Coding Knowledge Optional In This Track
Cyber Sentry: Defending Digital Doorways
About:
Modern authentication faces many issues ranging from password fatigue to 2FA. Common authentication methods are becoming obsolete and are inadequate in today’s digital landscape. Conceptualize a novel and secure authentication solution to protect digital assets better.
Experience Recommended:
Grades 9-12
Prerequisites:
  • Knowledge of authentication and authorization
1st Place Prize:
Sony WH-CH520 Wireless Headphones Bluetooth On-Ear Headset with Microphone
2nd Place Prize:
Redragon GS560 RGB Desktop Soundbar

Side-Competitions
USACO Mock Competition
About:
Written by USACO competitors, this side-contest serves as a gentle intro to competitive programming.
Dates & Times:
Saturday, March 22nd; 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Prerequisites:
  • Programming knowledge is required
Prize:
256 GB Flash Drive
Capture The Flag
About:
With (cybersecurity/CTF-style) challenges and puzzles suitable for all skill levels, this side-contest serves as an opportunity to hone and showcase your knowledge.
Dates & Times:
Sunday, March 23rd; 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Prerequisites:
  • Basic knowledge of cybersecurity
Prize:
Spotify Premium Gift Card - 3 Months

Schedule
Day 1
  • 8:00 AM
    Doors Open
  • 8:30 AM
    Opening Ceremony
  • 9:00 AM
    Hacking Begins
  • 1:00 PM
    Lunch
  • 3:00 PM
    USACO Competition Begins
  • 5:00 PM
    Workshop
  • 7:30 PM
    USACO Competition Ends
  • 8:00 PM
    Game
  • 10:00 PM
    Day 1 Ends
Day 2
  • 8:00 AM
    Doors Open
  • 8:00 AM
    Hacking Begins
  • 1:00 PM
    Lunch
  • 3:30 PM
    Soft Project Deadline
  • 3:30 PM
    CTF Competition Begins
  • 4:30 PM
    Hard Project Deadline
  • 5:00 PM
    Pitches Begin
  • 7:30 PM
    CTF Competition Ends
  • 7:45 PM
    Awards Ceremony
  • 8:00 PM
    Day 2 Ends

Judges
Joshua Tallman
Title:
Assistant Professor of Computer Science
Bio:
Professor Joshua Tallman joined the Concordia University faculty in 2019 as part of the Computer Science Department. He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from Johns Hopkins University with a BA in Computer Engineering. Professor Tallman has 15+ years of experience working as a programmer and analyst in the field of computer security. He has held positions within the Department of Defense working in Maryland, Germany, and the United Kingdom, as well as working as an independent contractor for Dragos, Inc., a company specializing in security for Industrial Control Systems. Professor Tallman wants his students to understand their study and vocation as a means for advancing the Great Commission. He strives to make learning and work as enjoyable as possible.
Angad AM
Title:
Senior Engineering Manager - Prisma Cloud, Palo Alto Networks
Bio:
Angad, currently serving as a Senior Engineering Manager at Prisma Cloud, is a seasoned techno-functional leader with expertise in cybersecurity, distributed computing, and cloud technologies (AWS, GCP, Azure, OCI, Alibaba). He leads the CNAPP Platform Engineering Quality team, driving innovation and excellence in cloud security solutions.
Hari Holla
Title:
Senior Project Manager
Bio:
Hari Holla is a cybersecurity expert with 15+ years of experience and currently a Senior Product Manager at CrowdStrike. Previously at Cisco, he specialized in software engineering, technical marketing, and product management. A recognized thought leader in zero trust security, attack surface management, and AI-driven security, he has spoken at major conferences like RSA, BlackHat, Fal.Con and others, earning “Distinguished Speaker” honors. Hari holds dual master’s degrees in Information Technology and Business Administration, enabling him to bridge technology innovation with business strategy. Active in IEEE, OWASP, and other forums, he is committed to advancing cybersecurity and fostering community growth.
Steven Ngo
Title:
Software Engineering Ph.D. Student @ UC Irvine
Bio:
Steven Ngo is a 2nd-year Software Engineering Ph.D. student at UC Irvine, currently advised by Dr. Joshua Garcia, where he focuses on research in the areas of software security and software engineering & security education. He holds a B.S. in Software Engineering ('23) with a minor in Psychology from Cal. Poly. SLO, and he has formerly interned for Samsung Research America, GoDaddy, and USC's Info. Sciences Institute. He is also currently the president of Cyber@UCI, the cybersecurity club at UCI, and a member of UCI's Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition (CCDC) team that won 2nd at WRCCDC Regionals and 4th at CCDC Nationals in 2024.
Amit Jagtiani
Title:
Enterprise Cybersecurity Executive | Deloitte & Touche
Bio:
Amit Jagtiani is a seasoned Enterprise Cybersecurity executive at Deloitte & Touche, leading Cyber Identity and Access Management, Detect and Respond, and Cyber Strategy for Higher Education and State & Local Clients. With extensive expertise in cloud security, risk management, and cybersecurity strategy, Amit specializes in developing and executing enterprise security roadmaps that enhance profitability, brand positioning, compliance, security architecture posture, strategic planning, and new product launches.

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