Students make it to the semi-finals of Cyberstrategy Challenge

Team Daedalus from the University of Portsmouth exceeded expectations and landed in the semi-finals of the 9/12 Cyberstrategy Challenge. 

The competition held yearly at BT Tower in London involves teams of 4 taking on the role of senior advisors in a simulated cyber incident. This year’s scenario revolved around the Department for Work and Pensions being attacked and taken down for a day, which caused severe public backlash that turned into violent protests. While ‘cyber’ is a term often associated with tech, a lot of the focus was on how to keep the public safe, what the international response should be and how to get the money to some of the UK's most vulnerable back soonest. 

The university team consisting of Curtis Cornwell, Ben Bradstock, Robert Vasiu and Casia Brezae competed against  158 teams, including teams from Russell group universities. Team Daedalus beat 148 of them and was only beaten by three of them.

The team had said about the experience: 

“This is a fantastic accomplishment for all of us, and we have been so proud to represent the University in such a manner. Additionally, we gained invaluable experience and the amazing opportunity to network directly with cybersecurity professionals and directors of cyber consulting firms. A unique opportunity to launch our careers forward and to learn so much about teamwork and about ourselves."