A 14-year-old boy in Tasmania successfully cracked four levels of code on a commemorative 50-cent coin released by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD), the nation’s foreign intelligence cybersecurity agency. The coin, minted to mark ASD’s 75th anniversary, had progressively harder layers of encryption, with clues on both sides. ASD director-general Rachel Noble praised the boy’s achievement and expressed a desire to recruit him. She also mentioned a secret fifth level of encryption on the coin that remains unbroken. The coin was designed to engage people in code-breaking and potentially encourage them to apply for jobs at ASD. Despite the absence of classified messages, the codes could reveal uplifting messages, and solving the last level may require a computer.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14-year-old cracks encryption on commemorative coin | Advancement in code-breaking abilities | Increased sophistication of encryption methods | Curiosity and interest in code-breaking |
| ASD agency hopes to recruit the 14-year-old | Recognition of young talent in cybersecurity | Increased focus on early talent recruitment | Need for skilled individuals in cybersecurity |
| Fifth level of encryption remains unbroken | Complexity of encryption methods | Development of even more secure encryption | Desire for stronger cybersecurity measures |
| Coin used to engage people in code-breaking | Engagement with the public in cybersecurity | Increased public interest in code-breaking | Promoting interest in cybersecurity |
| Cracking the codes may reveal uplifting messages | Discovery of hidden messages within encryption | Encouragement to explore and solve complex codes | Incentive to engage in code-breaking challenges |