Cyber Security Challenge UK Announces First Finalists

Cyber Security Challenge UK has announced the first finalists of this year’s competition following the latest challenge, the Sophos Malware Hunt.

Just 11 competitors from a field of 30 progressed to the Masterclass final following the challenge, the first of three exercises in which 86 entrants will compete to become Cyber Security champion.

Nasty code

The Sophos Malware Hunt exposed competitors to some of the most malicious criminal code in the Sophos vaults. For this round, contestants did not need an advanced knowledge of the code, but were only required to have an analytical mind and show attention to detail.

“The competition we set candidates today tested their skills in identifying malware, preventing data theft and understanding how to avert future incidents on devices, all skills needed to succeed in an environment like SophosLabs or indeed any business,” commented James Lynne, director of technology strategy at Sophos.
Tim Pullen, a software engineer from Cheltenham finished top of the pile and is guaranteed a share of the spoils on offer.
“Signing up for the challenge was really for a bit of fun and an opportunity to learn a bit more about what the professionals do for a living,” said Pullen. “I can’t wait to see what the challenge throws at us next.”

The winners have made it through to the grand final, the HP and Cassidian run Masterclass, which will require them to demonstrate the skills demonstrated in previous rounds and apply them in a business setting.

See more at: http://www.techweekeurope.co.uk/news/cyber-security-challenge-uk-announces-first-finalists-54451