Public VS Private Bug Bounty programs: Which one fits your organisation?
When launching a Bug Bounty program, you will find two main types of Bug Bounty programs:
Public
Private
Each option has its own advantages, challenges and ideal use cases.
⚠️ As an organisation, you should always start with a private Bug Bounty program before moving to a public one.
Private programs
Definition
Accessible only by invitation to selected hunters
Not listed publicly on the YesWeHack directory
Use case
For companies starting with Bug Bounty (to limit the volume of reports)
For sensitive assets requiring specific testing conditions not suitable for large audience
When you want to gradually scale before going public
Benefits for companies
Full control over who can access your program
Better alignment between scope complexity and hunter expertise
Pros & Cons
More control and security in researcher selection
Reduced volume of reports → manageable workload
Restricted number of hunters
Slower vulnerability discovery compared to public
Public programs
Definition
Visible to all hunters
Everyone with a verified Hunter account can submit a report on a public program
Use case
When you want maximum visibility and diverse expertise
For mature security processes that can handle a large number of reports
Benefits for companies
Access to a large and diverse pool of ethical hackers
Faster discovery of vulnerabilities thanks to high participation
Strong communication value (public recognition of your program)
Pros & Cons
Wide coverage from many hunters
Increases brand visibility as a security-conscious organisation
Better security outcomes
Higher volume of reports
Less control about who participates among the verified users
Feature | Private programs | Public Programs |
Access | Restricted to invited hunters | Open to all verified hunters |
Visibility | Visible only for the invited hunters in the program’s list | Listed in the "My Programs" page |
Participation | Restricted number of hunters | The whole community of hunters |
Report volume | Low, more focused | High |
Best use case | Gradual start, sensitive assets, scaling | Mature security teams, broad coverage |
Best practices for companies
Start with a Private Program if you want to test processes with a smaller scope
Move to Public once your team is ready to manage a higher volume of reports
Expected outcome
By choosing the right program type companies can:
Balance coverage, control and workload
Scale their security testing progressively
Maximize ROI from their Bug Bounty initiative