In Search of Code Breakers, UK Intel Invades Social Media

Launches 'Can You Crack It?' test
By Mark Russell,  Newser Staff
Posted Dec 1, 2011 6:15 AM CST
In Search of Code Breakers, UK Intel Invades Social Media
British intelligence agency GCHQ had previously advertised for new recruits on several popular video games.   (AP Photo/Massive/ho)

Did you ever want to be a code-breaking secret agent? Well, this could be your big chance. One of Great Britain's oldest intelligence services, Government Communications Headquarters, has launched an online test called "Can You Crack It?," designed to help find new talent, reports the BBC. The thinking is that a lot of code-savvy young people probably do not frequent the usual job-hunting sites or see traditional advertising, so instead GCHQ is targeting social media and viral marketing.

With a simple website featuring 160 pairs of hexidecimal digits, GCHQ quietly launched the recruiting campaign last month, and says it will continue until Dec. 12. It's the latest creative campaign for the intelligence service, which has previously advertised on video games such as Call of Duty and Splinter Cell. Sorry, but only British citizens need apply—and only those who haven't been arrested for hacking. (More intelligence agencies stories.)

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