Kanpur, December 20, 2025: C3iHub, IIT Kanpur, has announced an extension of the registration deadline for HACK IITK 2026 – Cybersecurity Challenge Hackathon, following an overwhelming response from students, professionals, startups, and cybersecurity enthusiasts across India. The new registration deadline is 10 January 2026.

HACK IITK 2026 is a Global cybersecurity hackathon conceptualized by C3iHub researchers, engineers, and IIT Kanpur faculty, and has evolved into a premier platform for innovation, skill development, and entrepreneurship in cybersecurity. The Hackathon will be conducted in Hybrid Mode with the Final scheduled in the month of March 2026 at IIT Kanpur Campus.

Hackathon Domain & Focus Areas

The domain of this year’s hackathon is Critical Infrastructure Security, with focused subdomains including:

• Network Security

• Cryptography & Secure Communication

• Hardware Security

• IoT Security

• AI Security

• Digital Forensics

• Automotive Security

• Cyber Crime

Competitive Tracks

This year’s edition features two competitive tracks:

1. Capture the Flag (CTF) Track – A high-intensity challenge where participants solve real-world security puzzles, exploit vulnerabilities, and demonstrate hands-on technical skills.

2. Solution Track – Teams will work on problem statements curated by cybersecurity experts and present their innovative solutions during the Grand Finale at IIT Kanpur.

Important Registration Advisory

C3iHub has clarified that registering on the C3iHub Arena platform alone does not complete participation. To officially participate in HACK IITK 2026, candidates must register for a specific track.

To complete registration, participants must:

1. Register or log in on the C3iHub Arena platform ( https://hackathon.c3ihub.iitk.ac.in )

2. Navigate to HACK IITK 2026 under Upcoming Hackathons

3. Open the selected track page (CTF Track or Solution Track)

4. Register again on the chosen track page to confirm participation

Only participants who complete the track-level registration will be considered officially registered.

Partners for HACK IITK 2026

Partners onboarded so far include:

• Knowledge Partner: Zscaler

• Technology Partners: SecuredApp, Saptang Labs, Cyethack Solutions, Forensic CyberTech, Hommi Technovation

• Cloud Partner: Amazon Web Services

• Outreach Partners: Ideas Matter Most, Association of Indian Universities

• Educational Partners: CSJMU Kanpur, AKTU

Prizes & Opportunities

HACK IITK 2026 features a prize pool worth exceeding INR 30 Lakhs, along with AWS cloud credits, certification vouchers, industry exposure, and opportunities for internships, mentorship, and career advancement. The event will also feature a distinguished jury panel comprising experts from academia, government, and industry, who will evaluate solutions and identify the next generation of cybersecurity innovators.

Registration Link

https://hackathon.c3ihub.iitk.ac.in

C3iHub, IIT Kanpur invites aspiring cybersecurity professionals to leverage this extended deadline and ensure timely completion of track-specific registration.

About IIT Kanpur

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 20 departments, 27 centres, three interdisciplinary programs, and three specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 570 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur remains a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, please visit: www.iitk.ac.in.