Michał Brandt
Security Lead, Raiffeisen Tech Poland
Raiffeisen Tech Poland Raiffeisen Tech Meet Up #8: How to Think Like a Hacker: Learning Cybersecurity Through CTFs
Curious what ethical hacking really looks like behind the scenes, and how hackers actually think when solving security challenges? In the world of cybersecurity, hands-on practice and experience are essential. During the Security CoP CTF – A Hacking Journey Through the Eyes of a Champion session, participants had the opportunity to explore hacking from an expert’s perspective and gain insight into proven strategies and approaches used in real-world scenarios.
An Expert Approach to Hacking and Problem Solving
The session was led by Michał Brandt, who shared insights based on years of experience working with Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges as well as real security scenarios.
A key value of the session was its focus not only on solutions, but on the thinking process behind them. Participants were able to follow how an expert approaches a problem — from initial analysis and breaking it down into manageable parts, to building a strategy and testing hypotheses step by step.
This approach highlights that success in cybersecurity depends not only on technical knowledge, but also on structured thinking, consistency, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions.
Capture The Flag as a Learning Environment
An important part of the session was dedicated to the role of CTF competitions as an effective tool for developing cybersecurity skills. These challenges simulate real-life environments and problems that professionals may encounter in their day-to-day work.
Participating in CTFs enables the development of a broad range of competencies — from vulnerability analysis and system exploration to solving complex tasks under time pressure. At the same time, it strengthens key soft skills such as creativity, persistence, and resilience.
Best Practices and a Methodical Approach
The session also introduced practical approaches that can be applied in everyday work. A strong emphasis was placed on a methodical mindset — breaking down complex problems, systematically validating assumptions, and making effective use of available tools.
Continuous learning and building a strong technical toolkit were highlighted as critical success factors. In a rapidly changing technology landscape, the ability to learn and adapt quickly is essential.
Strengthening a Security-Driven Culture
Initiatives such as Security CoP CTF play a crucial role in building a long-term security culture within the organization. They provide opportunities for hands-on learning, enable direct interaction with experts, and support continuous skills development across teams.
In the face of growing cyber threats, investing in knowledge, awareness, and practical competencies is no longer optional — it is a strategic necessity.
More About Raiffeisen Tech Meet Up
Raiffeisen Tech Meet Up is a series of meetups where Raiffeisen Tech experts share their knowledge in IT and banking. The events are organized in collaboration with Sages. If you missed any of the previous meetups, you can catch up by watching the recordings on our YouTube channel.
Watch recordings from previous Raiffeisen Tech Meet Up sessions