Government to get kids into cyber security with Digital Defenders campaign

The UK Government has teamed up with security organisation CREST to launch a campaign that helps kids get into cyber security.

The Digital Defenders campaign was launched at the Big Bang Fair at the NEC Birmingham to encourage younger people to look into careers in cyber security. The Government backed initiative introduces a series of 'superhero' characters called Crypto Shield, Frost Byte, Agent and Block to help inspire the next generation of cyber-security experts.

The stand at the Big Bang Fair gave young visitors the opportunity to solve puzzles, codes and other cyber games. There was also information about careers in cyber security, which included Apprenticeship programmes as well as cyber security jobs at Degree level.

“Cyber security is an exciting profession, offering many varied career paths. The Big Bang Show project showcases all of the career options available and through the Digital Defenders team shows how we can work together to win the fight against cyber-crime.” said Matt Hancock, Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General.

Cyber-crime has been one of the largest threats and the number of attacks have increased in recent years, therefore cyber security have become a priority for not only businesses and organisations but for the Government as well. The initiative is to ensure the next generation of cyber security specialists are ready to take on the increasing levels of cyber-crime and to potentially tighten up the skills gap.

“Technology skills are very valuable when it comes to working in cyber security, but this is not just a career for techies,” said Ian Glover, President of CREST. “In addition to technology based careers there is a wide range of other options including threat intelligence, legal and regulatory compliance, digital forensics, cultural change, training, project management and business analysis. All of these people are part of the Digital Defenders team who work together to win the fight against cyber-crime.”

More than 100,000 people already work in the IT security industry and demand for cyber security jobs continues to significantly grow.