Call to cyber security visionaries

Cash rewards are being offered to computer start-ups and workers who create technologies that disrupt the digital or internet operations of criminals and terrorists.



The Cyber Security Challenge says it is responding to digital being the new front line of security by putting up a total of £9,000 in cash prizes for new IT-led innovations.



It wants to hear from infant firms and developers whose technologies show the potential, more than the maturity, to combat digitally-armed criminals and terrorists.



Applicants to the challenge, which was founded by the London Business School, might submit technologies to protect data, networks, servers, their users or their identities.



Other areas of technical interest include spam-prevention, penetration testing and defences for virtualised computing, said the CSC, which is backed by BAE Systems.



Winners will receive cash and mentorship, while all the entrants will gain exposure, from having their technologies seen by investors, media, government and industry.



On top of the grand prize of £5,000, the CSC is also offering $500,000 in a separate search for the most promising cyber security start-up and $10,000 for the best cyber security idea.