ACM xSTF CTF@FEUP 2025: Capture The Flag Competition

ACM xSTF CTF@FEUP 2025: Capture The Flag Competition

ACM xSTF CTF@FEUP 2025 was one of the most enriching and transformative experiences I've ever had. Playing a central role in the organization, I handled logistics, sponsorship outreach, and general coordination — without any precedent of this kind of event at FEUP. The challenge was immense, but so was the reward.

Thanks to the trust and support of companies such as Checkmarx, Euronext, CGI, and 7.1 TechHub, we secured sponsorships for everything: food, prizes, infrastructure, and venue. This event not only bridged students and the cybersecurity industry, but also helped foster a growing CTF culture at our university.

CTF Competition Sponsors badges

Alongside the incredible xSTF team, who provided most of the infrastructure and technical challenges, I contributed by designing and developing my first ever CTF challenge — a beginner-friendly crypto puzzle, aimed at helping participants take their first steps in the field.

My first chall

It was truly rewarding to see so many students — from high school to university — tackling challenges, attending workshops, and getting excited about cybersecurity.

Key Contributions

  • Developed the official landing page and handled infrastructure for challenge deployment.
  • Acted as liaison with industry partners, securing full sponsorship.
  • Coordinated promotion, brand identity, and photo/video media coverage.
  • Created and tested an original cryptography challenge for the competition.
  • Led the coordination between the challenge creators, team mentors, and participants.

Organizing ACM xSTF CTF@FEUP 2025 taught me leadership, logistics, and real-world cybersecurity in ways no classroom ever could.

Staff photo