Monday, December 20, 2021

ICYMI: "The #GCHQChristmasChallenge is here!"

 From Britain's Government Communications Headquarters, December 13:

We reveal this year’s Christmas card which comes with a twist

Today we’ve revealed this year’s official Christmas card from Director, Sir Jeremy Fleming.

Each year the card contains a festive brainteaser, only this time it comes with a twist as the seven fiendish puzzles have been specially designed for 11 to 18-year-olds. However we’re encouraging everyone to test their skills and see if they can complete the challenge.

Director’s Christmas card is traditionally sent to National Security colleagues and partners across the world who work alongside us every day to counter organised crime gangs, terror groups and hostile states looking to do the UK harm.

This year the card sets a not-so-secret mission through a set of puzzles which increase in difficulty as you move through the challenge. It’s a great way to challenge other members of your household over the festive period.

Director GCHQ Sir Jeremy Fleming, said:

From Enigma to modern day encryption, GCHQ's history is full of talented people tackling the country’s most complex challenges. If we’re to help keep the country safe, problem-solving skills and teamwork are absolutely crucial.

That’s why this year’s Christmas puzzles are aimed at young people. I am keen to encourage STEM skills, thinking differently, and help foster the next generation of talent.

I want to show young people that thinking differently is a gift, and it is only with a mix of minds that they can solve seemingly impossible problems, just like we do at GCHQ.

To support greater take up of STEM subjects, particularly among young girls, GCHQ has partnered with the organisation Stemettes on several activities over the last few years....

....MUCH MORE (don't be shy about clicking through, they already know who you are, where you are, whether you've been naughty or nice, what you're wearing,....)