Search Begins for the Next Generation of Cyber Security Talent

In partnership with Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) will be sending a team of young women to represent the UK at the inaugural Kunoichi Cyber Games taking place at the Code Blue cyber security conference in Tokyo later this year.

Young people across the country are being called upon to put their cyber skills to the test in the new UK Cyber Team Competition, offering them the chance to represent the UK on the world stage and kickstart a career in cyber security.

The Competition invites 18- to 25-year-olds with a passion for cyber security to test their skills against challenging cyber exercises designed to push their technical expertise and problem-solving abilities.

This includes simulations of real-world scenarios in areas like cryptography, digital forensics, web exploitation and network security. This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity to engage in demanding tasks that mirror the day-to-day challenges faced by professionals in the field.

Top performers will earn a place on the UK Cyber Team and take the next step in their cyber security career, with access to advanced training supported by industry experts, networking opportunities with agencies and leading cyber security firms, and mentorship to help develop their careers.

Together, they will represent the nation in prestigious international cyber competitions, including friendly matches against other national cyber teams, and major events like the International Cybersecurity Championship and the European Cybersecurity Challenge.

The competition, delivered in partnership with the SANS Institute, is open to all UK residents aged 18 to 25 with an interest in cyber security. Applications are now open, where participants can register and access preliminary challenges.