Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Phobia-themed Capture the Flag competition featuring jeopardy-style cybersecurity challenges
- Beginner-friendly format welcoming participants of all skill levels, from students to professionals
- Hybrid event with both virtual and in-person participation options at NJIT
- Covers practical skills in ethical hacking, penetration testing and digital forensics
- Includes industry speaker sessions, cash prizes and free food for on-site attendees
About the Competition
SpookyCTF 2026 is a Capture the Flag cybersecurity competition hosted by NJIT’s Cyber Security Network. The two-day event runs November 6 to 7, 2026, with in-person activities held at the NJIT Campus Center Ballroom A. Virtual participation is available for remote competitors.
The competition uses a jeopardy-style format where individuals and teams solve cybersecurity challenges across multiple categories. A phobia theme adds a distinctive element to the challenge design. Cash prizes are awarded to top performers.
Technical Focus Areas
Challenges emphasize practical cybersecurity skills including ethical hacking, penetration testing and digital forensics. Participants benefit from familiarity with penetration testing distributions such as Kali Linux or Parrot OS, along with virtualization platforms like VMware or VirtualBox. The competition runs on the CTFd platform, with Discord serving as the community hub.
Who Should Attend
SpookyCTF welcomes participants regardless of experience level. The event suits cybersecurity students, analysts, penetration testers, security researchers and engineers looking to develop hands-on skills. Industry speaker sessions provide additional learning opportunities and networking with peers and professionals. The format accommodates both individual competitors and teams.