The final of the nationwide event, aimed at finding the UK's best amateur cyber defenders and bringing them into the profession, is taking place today and tomorrow on board the HMS Belfast, which is docked on The Thames in central London.
The event is organised by some of the country's biggest names in cyber security such as BT, GCHQ and the National Crime Agency, who will be on board to run their eye over the competition.
Entrants invited to #CyberSecurity Challenge 2015 Masterclass to defend London from simulated terrorist cyber attack. http://t.co/dFWrf8sWsa
— Broadstone Security (@RiskSpecialists) November 14, 2014
Finding suitable people to fight cyber crime has been high on the agenda of key players in the UK in recent years, with the competition's organisers hoping the event can act as a recruitment drive and address "a critical skills shortage that affects government bodies, businesses and citizens alike."
The UK is preparing its defences against hypothetical #cyberterrorism attack as part of #cyber #security challenge: http://t.co/YtzVoA2TeO?
— David Mair (@CyberTProject) November 10, 2014
The 42 finalists competing in the 'Masterclass' event have been tasked with a mission to try and avert a plot from a cyber terror group who have gained control of a naval gun system and are threatening to blow up London's city hall.
As part of their challenge, the candidates will be given access to industry standard cyber crime fighting tools used by government and business specialists, which organisers say makes it the most realistic test to identify talent.
Francis Maude, Minister for the Cabinet Office with responsibility for the Cyber Security Strategy and National Cyber Security Programme, says the event will help the UK find the next generation of cyber crime defenders.
"Both government and business need skilled and talented people to feed the demand for better cyber security in the UK. This competition is the biggest and best yet and events like this play an important role in helping provide the next generation of cyber professionals."
Meanwhile, Stephanie Daman, CEO at the Cyber Security Challenge believes the "staggering" likeness of the event to reality will ensure that whoever impresses in the competition will be well suited to enter the industry.
"Its because of this we are confident that anyone who shines over the next two days is going to be a highly valuable addition to our profession. Around half of last year's finalists are already in their first cyber security jobs whilst the majority of the rest are well on their way, taking training courses, accreditations or internships to boost their CVs. There is no reason why all 42 of our finalists today can't follow in their footsteps."
The UK cyber security challenge final takes will start today, before concluding tomorrow.
