Young innovators challenge cybercrime through VR technologies

A prestigious international forum starts in the seaside city of Burgas, where technology enthusiasts will demonstrate their potential in fighting cybercrime. The two-day VR Hackathon, organized by the Swiss The Knowledge Foundation in collaboration with key partners like UNODC and the local municipal administration, aims to mobilize young talents around global challenges.

The initiative attracts participants over 16 years old from different nationalities, providing a unique platform for innovative developments. The event is completely free and accessible both in-person and remotely, which expands the potential scope of the project.

The main goal of the hackathon is to create virtual realities that address critical topics such as digital security, ethics, and social resilience against technological threats. Participants will have the opportunity to demonstrate their prototypes during the Black Sea Game Summit on June 27 and 28.

The prize fund includes exceptional opportunities for the winners. The champion will receive a chance to present their project at international UN events related to cybercrime, potentially in cities like Vienna, Doha, or Hanoi.

The second and third teams will be rewarded with free entry fees to the prestigious Web3 Summit in Berlin, which will be held from July 16 to 18. There they can exhibit their developments to leading experts and participate in additional competitions with potential for funding.

Technical requirements for the projects include compatibility with Meta Quest 3 and Meta Quest 3S platforms, as well as development under an open license. A jury of international experts will evaluate the developments according to their technical implementation, originality, visual presentation, and thematic relevance.

The event fits into the broader context of the newly adopted UN Convention against Cybercrime from December 2024. Through this hackathon, the organizers aim to engage the younger generation in active actions against digital threats.

As an additional bonus, all participants will receive a Knowledge Token® – a digital currency that provides access to future international events and educational platforms, expanding their professional horizons.