NASA recently recognized a UNC Pembroke computer science student for his exceptional cybersecurity skills.
Shirsendu Mondal received a formal letter of appreciation from the agency's Vulnerability Disclosure Program for identifying and responsibly reporting a security vulnerability in one of NASA's digital systems.
According to NASA, Mondal's efforts helped enhance the integrity and protection of NASA's information infrastructure — 'an achievement that underscores the real-world impact of ethical hacking and the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding national assets.'
Mondal considers it an honor to be recognized by a leading federal agency.
"It took me two weeks of constant reconnaissance just to find something that could be reportable," Mondal said in a press release. "Most of the things I was trying were failing and taking me into rabbit holes one after another, but I was determined that I wouldn't give up unless I got that letter of appreciation. This led to sleepless nights, but I finally found something worth reporting."
For his efforts, Mondal's name is also listed on the Hall of Fame for Vulnerability Disclosure under NASA's Vulnerability Disclosure program, a publicly visible list recognizing individuals who have responsibly reported security vulnerabilities in NASA's systems.
Mondal's professor, Dr. Prashanth Reddy praised him as a key contributor to the cybersecurity research group, calling the NASA recognition a reflection of his high-quality work and expressing pride in his achievements and future potential.
"Shirsendu has been a valuable part of our cybersecurity program," said Reddy in a press release. "Receiving a letter of appreciation from NASA is an honor and a testament to the caliber of his work. We're proud to have him representing our cybersecurity program and look forward to seeing where his talents take him next."
A family affair: Along with a full staff, Owner Eddie Claude and his wife Ruth (pictured right) work with their kids to run the restaurant. Eddie is a Veteran who served for 21 years in the U.S. Army. Photos by YGH STUDIOS & GFBJ. The Fayett
With summer in full swing, I started to reflect on the various ways I spent my summer break over the years. From pool parties with friends to family vacations and sports tournaments, I look back fondly on the summers I’ve enjoyed so far. But it
Proposed incorporation boundary (pink) · Gray’s Creek, Cumberland County, N.C. This is a working draft and is subject to revision. Image courtesy of grayscreeknc.com. After decades as an unincorporated rural community in Cumberland County, Gray’
