Youngest Ever Winner of Cyber Security Challenge UK Announced

Sussex whiz kid Ben Jackson recently become the youngest contestant to ever win the Cyber Security Challenge UK, now in its sixth year.

The 18-year-old was announced the winner after three days of competition, which featured 42 participants aged between 16 and 56.

This year’s contest was based on a simulated cyber attack on a make-believe power company, which was given the name of Bolt Power. PwC both designed and sponsored the competition, supported by the Bank of England, the National Crime Agency, and GCHQ.

The contest was held in Shoreditch, London and marked the end of a year of qualifying stages, which involved in-person and web-based contests.

Cyber Security Challenge UK Limited utilises the contest to find new talent in cyber security, as well as promote the reality of a skills gap in the sector. Throughout the years, half of those taking part have progressed to employment

Jackson was excited to have been named the winner, saying:

“I’m frankly amazed that I’ve won. This has been a brilliant few days and a life changing experience, meeting some great people along the way. I hope to now go on pursue a career in cyber-security, something which I really enjoy.”

In the interests of business protection, companies in the UK would be wise to keep their eye on upcoming cyber talent, as it could one day save their company. Cyber threats have caused significant damage to major companies within the last few years, and while a typical SME’s budget for IT security recruitment may not allow for the best talent available, they would be naïve in thinking that it is a position surplus to requirements.