UK 'to emulate US Cyber Challenge'

2009-10-09

A UK version of the US Cyber Challenge is set to be introduced by the government in collaboration with computer security training body the SANS Institute, it has been reported.

According to the Times, the organisers are hoping to emulate the American scheme which looked to encourage potential hackers to work in internet security and turn away from illegal activities.

Judy Baker, a security consultant who is organising negotiations with British firms to give backing and provide a management structure, told the newspaper: "Government and business need more and better security experts to protect intellectual property and business continuity and keep private communications private."

She revealed that plans are turning towards a "public/private management consortium" with representatives coming from top business sectors and bodies.

In related news, around 100 people have been charged in the US and Egypt as part of the FBI's Operation Phish Phry.

Director Robert Mueller said that it formed part of the "cyber arms race".

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