Potential Security Flaw in Dave & Buster’s “Find the Flag” Event Sparks Concerns
Recently, I came across some concerning information regarding the ongoing “Find the Flag” promotion at Dave & Buster’s in Reno.
You can view the promotion here: https://www.daveandbusters.com/us/en/find-the-flag/reno/?location=Reno+US+%2C+89502
During my participation, it was brought to my attention that the clues for the game may be accessible earlier than intended. Using basic browser developer tools, I discovered that the URL structure for the clues follows a simple, predictable pattern based on dates. Furthermore, the clue files appear to be publicly hosted without any server-side restrictions, making them accessible to anyone with minimal technical knowledge.
This vulnerability means that a user could:
- Open developer tools on the official clues webpage,
- Inspect the resources and source code,
- Modify the date parameter in the URL (e.g., changing from
clue-2025-07-16.jpgtoclue-2025-07-17.jpg), - Instantly view upcoming clues ahead of schedule.
Such a loophole could explain how some participants managed to discover multiple flags in just minutes after they were released. Conversely, obtaining flags through legitimate deduction required more effort and skill, highlighting a potential imbalance caused by this flaw.
I have already contacted Dave & Buster’s Guest Relations team and provided them with detailed screenshots and technical insights. Out of respect for privacy and fairness, I have chosen not to publicly name any individuals involved or accuse anyone of misconduct, preferring to give the company an opportunity to address the issue.
This situation raises questions about the integrity of the promotion and whether this uncovered vulnerability was accidental or intentional. It also underscores the importance of securing online game elements against predictable URL patterns and public hosting.
If you have insights or experiences related to this, I welcome your thoughts. Let’s hope that Dave & Buster’s resolves this swiftly to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all participants.
