Training Description
Key Takeaways
- Annual online jeopardy-style Capture the Flag competition hosted by nonprofit Cyber Hacktics
- Challenges cover cryptography, exploitation, reversing, forensics, web security, OSINT, traffic analysis and programming
- Narrative-driven format featuring a fictional hacker group called DEADFACE and the GhostTown forum
- Free to participate, attracting thousands of competitors globally
- 2026 edition scheduled for October 17 to 19
About DEADFACE CTF
DEADFACE CTF is an annual online Capture the Flag competition that combines technical cybersecurity challenges with an immersive storyline. Hosted by the nonprofit organization Cyber Hacktics, the event typically runs in support of National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Participants work to thwart a fictional hacker group called DEADFACE through a series of jeopardy-style challenges.
The competition distinguishes itself through its narrative framework, which unfolds via a fictional forum called GhostTown. This story-driven approach integrates technical problem-solving with an evolving plot, giving participants context for their challenges beyond isolated technical exercises.
Technical Challenge Categories
DEADFACE CTF presents challenges across multiple cybersecurity disciplines, testing a broad range of offensive and defensive skills:
- Cryptography
- Exploitation
- Reverse engineering
- Digital forensics
- Web security
- Open Source Intelligence (OSINT)
- Traffic analysis
- Programming
Competition Format and Schedule
The event runs for approximately 34 hours over a weekend. The 2026 edition is scheduled for October 17 to 19, following the 2025 competition held on October 25 to 26. Teams compete for rankings throughout the event window.
Who Should Participate
DEADFACE CTF is designed for security enthusiasts, students and professionals worldwide. The free entry and online format make it accessible to individuals and teams regardless of location. The range of challenge categories accommodates participants with varying specializations, from those focused on code analysis and exploitation to investigators skilled in forensics and open source research.