DEF CON is one of the largest and most significant hacker conventions in the world – and certainly, one that you can consider as being an old-school hacker event, bringing together a wide collection of people interested in hacking, cybersecurity, and digital culture.
One of the most sought-after items at this conference is the DEFCON badge.
Unlike most cybersecurity conference badges, DEF CON badges are one-of-a-kind, high-tech, and highly interactive, making them a geek’s collector item par excellence.
Here’s a Cool Video Discussing the Awesoweness of DEFCON Badges
The History of the DEF CON Badge
The DEF CON hacker badge originated at DEF CON 14 in 2006 when electrical engineer and hacker Joe “Kingpin” Grand changed the concept of a conference badge by adding electronic components.
The badges were more than simply a ticket to the event; they were a tiny hacking challenge in their own right, complete with LEDs, switches, and circuits that participants could modify.
This breakthrough paved the way for a culture of ‘badge hacking’ at DEF CON, in which attendees not only hack computers but also the badges that hang around their necks.
These badges have grown in complexity and originality throughout time. They’ve included crypto riddles and wireless communication capabilities in previous years.
Others had built-in screens, small keyboards, or elaborate printed circuit board (PCB) designs that elevated them to the level of art. They are frequently involved in ‘Capture the Flag’ and other convention contests.
They’ve also had Easter eggs: secret features or software that attendees could find on occasion. It’s not uncommon to see individuals crowded around at DEF CON with soldering irons and laptops in hand, attempting to hack into their badges to discover hidden functionality or simply personalize them.
Here’s A Summary of DEF CON Badges We Could Find
- DEF CON 14 (2006): The first electronic badge (as mentioned above) was designed by Joe “Kingpin” Grand. It featured blinking LEDs.
- DEF CON 15 (2007): Also designed by Kingpin, the badge had programmable LEDs and more intricate puzzles.
- DEF CON 16 (2008): This year featured a badge with an onboard microphone and LED display for audio spectrum analysis.
- DEF CON 17 (2009): Kingpin’s last badge for DEF CON had a more complex set of features and puzzles, including IR (infrared) communication capabilities.
- DEF CON 18 (2010): This year moved away from electronic badges but featured a highly intricate, artistic design made of aluminum.
- DEF CON 19 (2011): The badge featured a microcontroller and mini-USB port for programming.
- DEF CON 20 (2012): This was a special year with a very ornate badge to mark DEF CON’s 20th anniversary.
- DEF CON 21 (2013): A straightforward design but with an embedded puzzle.
- DEF CON 22 (2014): Featured an onboard crypto processor and various interactive games.
- DEF CON 23 (2015): The badge had an embedded LCD screen for a more interactive experience.
- DEF CON 24 (2016): Featured a badge with DEF CON’s first removable, hackable lanyard.
- DEF CON 25 (2017): Known for its “Darknet” theme, this badge allowed for multiplayer gaming among attendees.
- DEF CON 26 (2018): A retro-style badge designed like a vinyl record to celebrate the event’s history.
- DEF CON 27 (2019): Known for its “Teachable Machine” concept, it allowed attendees to program custom sequences.
- DEF CON 28 (2020): Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the conference was virtual, but a badge was still made available for those who wanted to purchase it.
The badges from each year are highly coveted and can become valuable collector’s items.
It’s worth noting that aside from the main badges, there are also “village” badges, “party” badges, and “challenge” badges that are produced by other groups and individuals attending the conference, each with its own unique features and puzzles.
DEF CON Badges Are A Status Symbol
They are a status symbol in the hacker community, representing a participant’s talents and participation in this subculture. Each badge is a piece of history from a given year’s conference, frequently related to the event’s special themes and difficulties.
As a result, antique badges can sometimes be found trading for high prices on auction sites and are highly sought after by collectors. They embody the DIY mentality and resourcefulness that hacking embodies, resulting in a one-of-a-kind marriage of technology, art, and community.
So, Why Are These Badges Desired by Geeks?
It combines technical difficulty, aesthetic appeal, and cultural relevance.
The DEF CON emblem encapsulates the essence of hacking: a riddle waiting to be solved, a system begging to be understood, and a community of like-minded people who value curiosity, freedom, and the simple thrill of discovery.