Loyola Blakefield Cyber Challenge 2026
About the Security Event
The Loyola Blakefield Cyber Challenge is a hands on cybersecurity competition designed to introduce participants to core technical skills through a Capture the Flag format. The event focuses on practical learning across areas such as cryptography, digital forensics, and systems hardening, making it accessible for beginners while still offering meaningful challenges for more experienced competitors. Participants are grouped into divisions based on prior CTF experience, allowing each competitor to learn at an appropriate pace.
The competition emphasizes learning over prior expertise, welcoming students with little or no background in cybersecurity. By working through realistic technical challenges, participants gain exposure to common security tools and problem solving approaches used in real world environments. The event supports skill building, teamwork, and curiosity, making it a strong entry point for students exploring cybersecurity as a future academic or career path.