Hello everyone,
I’m Samir KC (cybersamir), and today I’m beyond excited to share one of the proudest moments of my cybersecurity journey earning a place in NASA’s Hall of Fame for reporting a security vulnerability.

Yes, NASA – the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, one of the most respected organizations in the world, recognized my contribution to their security.

How It Started

Like many security researchers, I’ve always been passionate about exploring systems, testing applications, and understanding how vulnerabilities work. My curiosity led me to NASA’s Vulnerability Disclosure Program (VDP), where security researchers worldwide can responsibly report issues that help strengthen their digital defense.

During my testing, I discovered a self-reflected XSS vulnerability caused by unescaped user input in a field on one of NASA’s web applications. While this wasn’t a critical bug (classified as P5 – Informational), it still posed a risk if left unaddressed.

Responsible Disclosure

Instead of exploiting the issue, I responsibly reported it through NASA’s official program. After submission, it went under review, and finally, my report was acknowledged. As a token of appreciation, NASA added me to their Hall of Fame – a recognition that means a lot to me.

Why This Achievement Matters

Getting recognized by NASA is not just about my name on their Hall of Fame list. It represents:

• The importance of responsible disclosure in keeping the digital world safe.
• How even small findings, like informational bugs, contribute to building stronger security.
• Inspiration for other Nepali youths and cybersecurity enthusiasts that yes, we too can make a global impact.

Message to Fellow Hackers

If you’re passionate about security, don’t hesitate to get started. Platforms like Bugcrowd, HackerOne, and official VDPs are great places to practice and contribute. Remember, every report big or small plays a role in protecting critical systems.

Final Words

This recognition from NASA is a milestone in my cybersecurity journey, but it’s just the beginning. I’ll continue learning, testing, and sharing knowledge to promote digital safety through CyberSamir and Tech Aware Nepal.

If you want to explore more about my work or connect, feel free to reach out. Let’s build a safer cyberspace together.