20 March, 2023
A Fun Way to Enhance Team Building
CTF Games
CTF (Capture The Flag) games are a popular way for cybersecurity professionals, students, and enthusiasts to test their skills and knowledge in the field. By identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems or applications to locate hidden flags, players can develop a range of abilities, including cryptography, network engineering, web application security, and reverse engineering.
Beyond the educational value of CTF games, they can also be an effective tool for team building activities. These games encourage communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and promotes a sense of camaraderie and trust among team members. Companies like Codific recognize the benefits of CTF games as a way to enhance teamwork and create a positive work environment.
Codific’s Christmas CTF Game
Codific’s “Christmas CTF Game” is an excellent example of how companies can use gamification to promote teamwork, creativity, and engagement. It was designed and developed by Alex Ashkov combined with ideas of Dr. Aram Hovsepyan. The game challenges players to find 11 flags hidden in a fake web shop application by exploiting vulnerabilities and using critical thinking skills. By providing a fun and challenging environment, Codific can motivate its employees and create a sense of healthy competition that can lead to better work outcomes.
The game was played during a company event, providing a unique opportunity for team members to bond and collaborate on a fun and engaging project outside of their normal work.
To encourage participation, Codific also implemented a live score system through a CTFd instance. This element of the game created a sense of competition and encouraged team members to fully engage in the game.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Codific’s “Christmas CTF Game” demonstrates the company’s commitment to creating an innovative, creative and fun work environment. Codific was able to promote teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving and all while having healthy and fun competition.
This game is an excellent example of how companies can use creative ways to improve team building. It can also encourage their employees to think creatively all while having a rather good time.

Game Available For Anyone to Use
The game is available for anyone to download and use on GitHub.
Link: https://github.com/codific/christmas-ctf-game