Computer science student Adam Tonks was crowned as the fifth winner of the annual Cyber Security Challenge at the weekend.
After completing the 48 hour battle against the cyber terrorists Flag Day Associates and a separate challenge to protect an industrial control system, 21-year old Tonks beat thousands of entrants and 41 fellow finalists to be named as the winner.
Following in the footsteps of a postman, pharmacist and students Jonathan Millican and Will Shackleton, Tonks said: “I’m absolutely shocked but honoured to be the winner of this year’s Cyber Security Challenge. I’ve learned so much from the whole experience and although it’s been a gruelling few days, I’ve had a lot of fun working through every element that has been thrown at us by the UK’s best cyber professionals. I’m really proud of this achievement.”
Adam now receives his choice of rewards from a collection of career-enhancing prizes worth over £100,000 including valuable industry training, university courses, and access to strategic industry events.
Stephanie Daman, CEO, Cyber Security Challenge UK said: “Over the past two days we have given our candidates the most authentic experience of a what a real cyber attack will look and feel like ever created for civilians in the UK.
“Around half of last year’s finalists are already in their first cyber security jobs whilst the majority of the rest are well on their way, taking training courses, accreditations or internships to boost their CVs. There is no reason why all 42 of our finalists this year can’t follow in their footsteps.”
Mike Langley, vice president, Western Europe and South Africa at Palo Alto Networks, said: “Any business or organisation operating today will experience some form of cyber threat, and the Masterclass highlights the need to talk about cyber security in terms of both detection and prevention. Palo Alto Networks, in partnership with BT, supports the Cyber Security Challenge UK exercise and its role in expanding the talent pool of cyber security experts.”
Registrations are open now to play next year’s programme, which will feature a range of brand new competitions to be released over the coming months. These will be accompanied by a brand new play on demand platform which will mean any member of public can visit the Challenge website, and in just a few clicks assess their potential for a career in one of the UK’s fastest growing and most exciting sectors – http://cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk/signup
