The UK’s best cyber talent can represent the country in the European Cyber Security Challenge 2016 competition later this year. Cyber Security Challenge UK is looking for 10 candidates; aged 15 to 29, that have an aptitude for code-breaking, social engineering and digital forensics to compete against the best amateur talent in Europe.
The European Cyber Security Challenge has been developed in response to the growing popularity of cyber security challenges across the continent. These challenges have proven to be a great source of talent for companies across the cyber security landscape, and have led to contestants being recruited by a diverse collection of employers including government organisations, banks and financial institutions, energy suppliers and communications providers. The competition also allows international companies to see which country has talent, and identify where to hire from.
This year’s competition runs in Germany in October, bringing together teams from countries including Germany, Spain, Romania, Austria and Switzerland. It will take place over five days and will task competitors with deciphering complex codes, analysing computer networks and conducting an investigation into security scenarios that are similar to what organisations face on a day-to-day basis.
Last year was the first time the UK took part; and while the team put on a good show, didn’t manage to grab the top spot. This year, the Challenge is appealing to anyone in the UK that thinks they might have the right skills, to step forward and sign up for the competition and help lead the UK to victory.
Once the team has been chosen, they will go through ‘boot-camp’ training and tutorials, supported by some cyber security industry players. This will prepare them for the competition, and organisers add open the door to potential careers in cyber security. Those who make it through to the European competition will be given access to industry players to discuss opportunities for apprenticeships and jobs.
To be in with the chance of representing the UK this year, those interested will need to sign up to the Cyber Security Challenge’s play-on-demand platform and complete virtual games and competitions to test their skills. Candidates will be selected in August 2016. Sign up now or contact [email protected].
