OpenAI Expands Bio Bounty Program for Security Researchers
Pakistani researchers working in AI security, cybersecurity, and biosafety can now apply for an opportunity to earn up to $50,000 through a new program launched by OpenAI.
Pakistan appears as an available country option on the program’s application page. This confirms that researchers based in Pakistan can submit applications for consideration.
However, the program is not open to everyone. OpenAI will select participants after reviewing their applications and experience.
Program Focuses on AI Biological Safety
OpenAI has expanded its previous GPT-5.5 Bio Bug Bounty into an ongoing private initiative called the OpenAI Bio Bounty Program.
The program aims to improve protections against biological misuse of advanced AI models. It focuses on identifying security weaknesses that could bypass built-in biosafety safeguards.
Researchers will mainly test frontier AI models, including GPT-5.5 and GPT-5.6. Their findings will help OpenAI strengthen safety systems and improve model protection.
Researchers Must Identify Universal Jailbreaks
Selected participants must discover a universal jailbreak that can bypass biological safety protections across multiple safety tests.
A universal jailbreak refers to a single method or prompt that repeatedly defeats safeguards across a complete set of biosafety questions.
Finding separate solutions for individual questions will not meet the program’s main requirement. Instead, researchers must identify a broader vulnerability that affects the model’s overall safety framework.
OpenAI will use successful discoveries to address weaknesses and improve the biological safeguards of its advanced AI models.
Maximum Reward Increased to $50,000
OpenAI has increased the maximum reward for successful findings from $25,000 to $50,000.
Researchers who discover a successful universal jailbreak affecting GPT-5.5 or GPT-5.6 may receive the full reward. OpenAI can also provide smaller payments for partial discoveries based on the importance of the findings.
The company determines rewards after evaluating each submission and its impact on AI safety.
Application Process for Pakistani Researchers
Interested applicants need to complete a short application form. The form requires basic details, including name, country, affiliation, and relevant research experience.
Applicants must also have an active ChatGPT account. OpenAI will review applications on a rolling basis.
Selected researchers will receive access to the private testing platform. Before participation, they must sign a non-disclosure agreement with OpenAI.
Researchers who previously applied for the GPT-5.5 Bio Bounty Program do not need to apply again.
Opportunity Limited to Selected Experts
The $50,000 reward is not a public giveaway for all ChatGPT users. Applying does not guarantee participation.
Only researchers approved by OpenAI can access the testing environment and examine the AI models under the program.
The initiative mainly targets experts with experience in AI red teaming, cybersecurity, biological safety, and technical research.
OpenAI Continues Expanding Safety Research
Alongside the Bio Bounty Program, OpenAI also runs separate safety and security bounty programs. These initiatives allow researchers to identify risks related to AI systems and conventional cybersecurity.
The new program provides Pakistani researchers with an opportunity to contribute to AI safety efforts. However, participants must pass OpenAI’s selection process and successfully identify meaningful vulnerabilities to qualify for rewards.
