Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Free Capture The Flag competition and workshop event focused on IoT, embedded systems and operational technology security
- Hands-on format with participants interacting directly with real devices and equipment
- Technical challenges covering smart devices, hardware hacking, Android, protocols and reverse engineering
- Designed for security researchers, penetration testers, embedded systems engineers and cybersecurity students
About Ph0wn
Ph0wn is an in-person Capture The Flag competition and workshop event dedicated to the security of smart technologies. Held at SophiaTech Campus, the event brings together security practitioners and enthusiasts to work directly with real hardware and connected devices rather than simulated environments.
The event combines competitive CTF challenges with educational workshops, providing participants with practical experience in identifying vulnerabilities, understanding device protocols and reverse engineering hardware and software. Attendance is free, positioning Ph0wn as a community-driven initiative focused on skill development and knowledge sharing.
Technical Focus Areas
Ph0wn covers a broad range of topics within the smart device and embedded systems security space. Challenges and workshops address:
- IoT device security and protocol analysis
- Embedded systems vulnerabilities
- Operational technology (OT) security
- Android security
- Hardware hacking and device customization
- OSINT techniques
- Programming for IoT, OT and embedded environments
- Retro-gaming systems
The technical content emphasizes practical engagement with real equipment, allowing participants to develop hands-on skills that translate directly to professional security work.
Who Should Attend
Ph0wn is designed for technical practitioners working in or studying IoT and embedded device security. The event suits security researchers investigating connected device vulnerabilities, penetration testers expanding into hardware and IoT assessments, embedded systems engineers seeking to understand security implications of their designs, and cybersecurity students building practical skills beyond traditional IT security.
The hands-on format and focus on real devices makes Ph0wn particularly relevant for those who need to understand how smart technologies can be compromised, customized or secured in practice. Participants gain experience with the specific technical challenges that distinguish IoT and OT security from conventional network and application security work.