💻 TCS HackQuest Season 10 is back — the ultimate battleground for cybersecurity enthusiasts to prove their skills and win exciting rewards! Hosted by the TCS Cybersecurity Unit, this national-level ethical hacking contest challenges students to solve real-world security problems, showcase their technical prowess, and secure prizes worth up to ₹5 Lakhs, along with job interview opportunities at TCS Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.
If you’re a student graduating in 2026 and passionate about ethical hacking, penetration testing, or AI/ML security — this is your chance to shine! 🌟
About TCS HackQuest Season 10
TCS HackQuest was launched in 2016 to identify India’s top ethical hacking talent. The contest follows the popular Capture the Flag (CTF) format and tests participants through beginner, intermediate, and expert-level cybersecurity challenges.
Each edition empowers participants to strengthen their understanding of data security, digital forensics, cryptography, and penetration testing — all while competing with the sharpest young minds across the country.
Contest Overview
The HackQuest Season 10 is divided into three rounds designed to evaluate participants’ problem-solving abilities, security knowledge, and creativity in tackling real-world cyber threats.
| Round | Description | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | Online ‘Capture the Flag’ (CTF) challenge across Beginner, Intermediate, and Expert categories | Online |
| Round 2 | Advanced proctored penetration testing round covering web, AI/ML, and mobile security | Online (Remote Proctored) |
| Round 3 | Final in-person round at TCS premises with top 10 finalists presenting solutions to the jury | In-Person |
🗓 Key Dates:
- Registration Deadline: 1st December 2025 (Monday)
- Round 1 Date: 13th December 2025 (Saturday) from 10 AM to 4 PM IST
Eligibility Criteria
TCS HackQuest Season 10 is open to students in India graduating in 2026 from recognized institutions with the following degrees:
- B.Tech / B.E
- M.Tech / M.E
- BCA / MCA
- B.Sc. / B.S.
- M.Sc. / M.S.
Participation Type: Individual only (no team entries allowed).
Registration Fee: None – it’s completely free of cost!
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Contest Details and Evaluation
Participants will solve cybersecurity challenges across multiple domains such as:
- Password Cracking & Cryptography 🔐
- Network Vulnerabilities
- AI/ML-based Security
- Web Application Security
- Incident Response & Threat Hunting
- Reverse Engineering
Your performance will be evaluated on:
✅ Number of flags captured
✅ Quality of the technical report
✅ Approach used for solving the challenges
Shortlisted candidates from each round move to the next, culminating in the Grand Finale where the top 10 participants are recognized as India’s elite ethical hackers!
Prizes and Rewards 🎯
| Award Type | Details |
|---|---|
| 💸 Total Prize Pool | Worth up to ₹5 Lakhs |
| 🏅 Certificates | Merit certificates for top performers |
| 🧢 Merchandise | Exclusive TCS swag for winners |
| 💼 Career Opportunities | Interview opportunity with TCS Cybersecurity Center of Excellence |
| 🚀 Provisional Offers | Top performers may receive Ninja, Digital, or Prime job offers from TCS |
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Why Participate in TCS HackQuest Season 10
Participating in TCS HackQuest Season 10 not only boosts your cybersecurity expertise but also provides a platform to:
- Gain exposure to real-world ethical hacking challenges
- Network with cybersecurity experts from TCS
- Build your portfolio with recognized certifications
- Secure potential job opportunities with a leading tech giant
Whether you’re a budding hacker, cybersecurity researcher, or tech enthusiast — HackQuest is your chance to make your mark in India’s cybersecurity ecosystem. 🔥
How to Prepare
Here are a few tips to get ready for HackQuest Season 10:
- Practice CTF challenges on platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and OverTheWire.
- Brush up your basics in network security, web vulnerabilities, and cryptography.
- Learn tools like Burp Suite, Wireshark, Metasploit, and Nmap.
- Stay updated with latest cybersecurity threats and ethical hacking techniques.
How to Register
- Visit the official site: https://www.hackquest.tcsapps.com
- Create a TCS reference ID (CT/DT Number) by registering on TCS NextStep under the IT section.
- Use your TCS reference ID to sign up for HackQuest Season 10.
- Fill in your profile details and confirm registration before the deadline.
🔑 Note: Keep your login credentials secure, as they’ll be used for the contest rounds.
Conclusion
⚡ TCS HackQuest Season 10 is more than a competition — it’s your gateway into the world of cybersecurity and ethical hacking. With cash prizes, certifications, and job opportunities, this is the perfect platform for students passionate about technology and digital defense.
Don’t miss your chance to prove your skills and become a part of TCS’s legacy in cybersecurity innovation.
👉 Register now and gear up for the ultimate cyber challenge!
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