Cryptoy <\/p>\n
GCHQ has released its own \"fun, free, educational\" Android app to teach secondary school students about cryptography. <\/p>\n
The Cryptoy app, which has no permissions to access confidential information on Android devices, helps children understand basic encryption techniques and create their own encoded messages. <\/p>\n
The government hopes the app could help find the next generation of cyber-spies. Minister for the cabinet office Francis Maude said that it was a \"creative solution in the hunt for expertise, but with a 21st century spin\". <\/p>\n
Cryptoy is only available on Android at the moment, but an iOS version for iPads will be available in 2015, GCHQ said. It is aimed at Key Stage 4 students and covers both the theory and practice of cryptography as well its history. <\/p>\n
The idea was first developed by GCHQ's industrial placement students as a test project for the Cheltenham Science Festival but growing interest from teachers to use the app in schools persuaded GCHQ to make it publicly available. The spy-agency said examples of cryptography used in the app are from an \"earlier era\" but were still relevant to today's techniques. <\/p>\n
\"Building maths and cyber skills in the younger generation is essential for maintaining the cyber security of the UK and growing a vibrant digital economy,\" said GCHQ director Robert Hannigan. <\/p>\n
He described Cryptoy as a \"colourful, interactive way\" for students and teachers to explore cryptography. The app is compatible with Android 4.1 and up and is available to download now. <\/p>\n
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