Protecting your digital assets isn’t just about having the right tools; it’s about creating clear communication channels for those who might spot vulnerabilities. One way to do this effectively is by using a `security.txt` file—a standardized method for responsible vulnerability disclosure. If you're unsure about its purpose or implementation, we’ve covered the basics in our article: Understanding security.txt Files.

Why Every Company Needs a `security.txt` File

A `security.txt` file acts as a beacon for responsible disclosure. Placed at `.well-known/security.txt` on your domain, it provides crucial contact information, links to your vulnerability disclosure policy, and other details that guide researchers in reporting issues properly. Without it, you risk receiving bug reports through scattered channels, potentially leading to confusion, delays, or even breaches of sensitive information.

Cloudflare makes it easier than ever to manage your `security.txt` file. By leveraging Cloudflare's UI, you can dynamically serve this file without having to bake it into your website or application’s deployment pipeline. This not only ensures easy updates but also allows organizations to maintain a single source of truth for their security contact details.

A basic `security.txt` file might look like this:

 

Contact: mailto:security@example.com

Encryption: https://example.com/pgp-key.txt

Acknowledgements: https://example.com/acknowledgements.html

Policy: https://example.com/security-policy.html

Hiring: https://example.com/jobs.html

Expires: 2025-12-31T23:59:59.000Z

 

Make sure to adhere to the standardized locations: `/security.txt` and `.well-known/security.txt` at the root of your domain. This consistency ensures that legitimate researchers can easily locate the file.

Handling Bug Bounties and Beg Bounties

Unfortunately, not every report you receive will be genuine. Beg bounties—reports with little to no merit—are an increasingly common nuisance for organizations. They not only waste time but can also obscure legitimate reports.

Here’s how to politely respond to bug bounty inquiries while keeping your organization’s integrity intact:

Suggested Email Response

Subject: Acknowledgement of Your Security Report

Dear [Researcher’s Name],

Thank you for reaching out to us and bringing this matter to our attention. We appreciate the time and effort taken to review our systems.

We would like to inform you that at this time, our organization does not operate a bug bounty program. However, we are committed to maintaining the security of our platforms and value all legitimate security reports. If your submission identifies a verifiable vulnerability, we will review it promptly and take appropriate action.

To help us better evaluate your report, please ensure the following details are included:

1. A clear and concise description of the issue.

2. Steps to reproduce the vulnerability.

3. Any supporting evidence, such as screenshots, logs, or proof-of-concept code.

We kindly request your understanding that without a verified vulnerability, we cannot offer compensation. Our goal is to foster an open and constructive dialogue with the security community while maintaining fairness and focus.

Thank you again for your efforts. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact us at [security@example.com].

Best regards,  

[Your Name]  

[Your Position]  

[Organization Name]

 

This response strikes a balance between professionalism and openness while discouraging invalid submissions. It also encourages researchers to provide actionable information rather than vague or superficial claims.

Managing Legitimate Bug Reports

Not every report fits neatly into a beg bounty category. Sometimes, independent researchers stumble upon genuine vulnerabilities without any incentive other than the desire to help. In these cases, it’s vital to acknowledge their findings and act promptly. Here’s how to handle such scenarios:

  1. Acknowledge the Report: Send a prompt, courteous email thanking the researcher for their submission.
  2. Verify the Vulnerability: Have your security team evaluate the report to determine its validity and severity.
  3. Communicate Findings: Share your findings with the researcher, including whether the issue is a duplicate, a known limitation, or a discovery.
  4. Reward Good Faith: While you may not have a formal bug bounty program, consider recognizing legitimate contributions with public acknowledgment or a small token of appreciation if feasible.

Why Avoiding Beg Bounties Matters

Beg bounties undermine the integrity of vulnerability reporting by flooding organizations with noise. This not only distracts your security team but also discourages legitimate researchers who may feel their efforts are undervalued. By clearly stating your expectations in a `security.txt` file and responding to reports politely yet firmly, you create a culture of trust and collaboration with the ethical hacking community.

Implementing a `security.txt` file is a simple yet impactful step in securing your online presence. By clearly outlining your vulnerability disclosure process and maintaining open lines of communication, you minimize misunderstandings and maximize meaningful engagement. With tools like Cloudflare simplifying deployment and management, there’s no reason to delay.

Stay professional, stay secure, and always strive for clarity in your interactions. Your digital assets—and the trust of your users—depend on it.