US Naval Academy's involvement in maritime cyber security challenges

I've heard about the maritime capture the flag cyber security challenge at the US Naval Academy. Can someone explain what this event involves and how it benefits students interested in cyber security?

The Maritime Capture The Flag (CTF) event at the US Naval Academy is indeed a unique opportunity for students interested in the cybersecurity field. This event simulates real-world cybersecurity situations, specifically tailored to maritime environments, which help enhance the student's problem-solving skills and their understanding of cybersecurity principles.

An overview of CTF: Capture The Flag competitions are popular in the cybersecurity field. As the name implies, participants are tasked with capturing something of value (usually specific data or files) within a computer network, protected by a team of defenders.

The Maritime CTF at the US Naval Academy, however, has a unique twist. Instead of a general computer network, participants compete on a maritime network model. It means that the network contains systems and protocols typically found in the maritime industry, such as the Automatic Identification System (AIS), Global Positioning System (GPS) data, satellite communications, and shipboard network systems. It's like playing a cyber-game, but in an environment similar to what you'd find on a ship or a port.

A huge part of cybersecurity is specialization, as different sectors have unique systems and vulnerabilities. An event like the Maritime CTF would particularly benefit students considering careers in maritime industries, governmental agencies like the Navy or Coast Guard, or fields that closely coordinate with these entities. Participants in the Maritime CTF will get direct experience working with these systems, in a competition scenario that closely simulates the intense, fast-moving nature of real-world cybersecurity breaches. This hands-on experience with industry-specific systems and scenarios can be a significant boost when applying for internships or jobs in the field.

Even beyond just the specific systems involved, the competition is a demanding exercise that requires teamwork, technical cybersecurity skills, problem-solving, and time management. Regardless of whatever area in cybersecurity a student ends up entering, these skills are universally applicable. So, participating in such events can be a notable addition to a student's portfolio.