Blinn students participating in cyber 'capture the flag' challenge

Free event runs through October

October 17, 2024

Blinn College students are participating in a cyber version of the popular game capture the flag (CTF).

Blinn’s Computer Information Technology Program, part of the Division of Engineering, Computer Technology, and Innovation, is hosting the CTF event through Virginia Tech University’s U.S. Cyber Range.

In this virtual competition, participants hunt for hidden "flags"—text strings embedded in vulnerable websites or programs. The challenge invites students to put their problem-solving abilities to the test by uncovering these flags within intentionally weakened systems.

“This free event runs through the end of October and is open to anyone with an interest in cybersecurity, even those with minimal experience,” said Carol Wiggins, Computer Information Technology Program Coordinator. “Participants will encounter challenges that range from simple puzzles to more advanced scenarios.”

Challenges are organized into categories such as crypto, networking, ready player, reconnaissance, reverse engineering, and web.

Blinn students can register at blinn.ctf.uscyberrange.org and space is limited to 500 participants. Beginners can find useful tools to enhance their experience at github.com/devploit/awesome-ctf-resources.

Virginia Tech’s U.S. Cyber Range provides affordable cybersecurity education and training for schools and businesses seeking to provide cybersecurity education and training. Built primarily for academic users, it supports courseware and hands-on environments for cybersecurity students. Small businesses and others can also use the cyber range for information security staff training and certification preparation.

The Blinn College District Information Technology Program prepares students for high-demand careers in computer network administration. The program offers hands-on instruction in:

• personal computer and network fundamentals using CompTIA standards;
• server installation, configuration, and administration with Linux and Windows;
• networking with Cisco switches and routers;
• and web development using Apache, PHP, and MySQL.

Students complete their studies with a capstone project and an internship, preparing them to excel in today’s technology-driven workforce.