Decode the Hexadecimal Evidence Trail

forensics · easy · +50 XP

Understanding Hexadecimal Encoding

Hexadecimal (hex) encoding represents binary data using base-16 digits (0-9, A-F). Each byte of data is represented by two hex characters, making it human-readable while preserving the exact binary content. Forensic analysts frequently encounter hex-encoded data in memory dumps, network captures, and file artifacts.

The Attack Vector

When attackers exfiltrate data or hide information, they often apply simple encodings like hex to evade basic string searches and pattern matching. Your task is to decode the hex-encoded blob you've been given.

Decoding Techniques

You can decode hex using multiple tools: CyberChef (use the "From Hex" recipe), Python (bytes.fromhex(data).decode()), or command-line utilities like xxd -r -p on Linux. The decoded output will reveal the flag hidden within the evidence.

Your Mission

Decode the provided hex string to recover the flag. Remember: each pair of hex digits represents one ASCII character.

// graded hints — spend XP when stuck

// captured payload · hex

68637b68696464656e2d696e2d706c61696e2d6865782d3130315f3436653764333132316661367d

Hex-decode the blob to recover the flag (each pair of hex chars = 1 byte).

// this payload is unique to your account — decode it, then submit the recovered hc{...} flag below

// submit flag

// no solves yet

ATT&CK-Mapped Threat Hunt

// end of forensics

13 of 13 · forensics

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