GCHQ has released its annual Christmas challenge for 2024.

Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) is one of the world's leading intelligence, cyber and security agencies.

Each year the agency releases a Christmas challenge, in the form of a card, which consists of a series of "fiendish" brainteasers and puzzles, designed by experts and codebreakers at GCHQ.

Last year's Christmas card was downloaded more than 138,000 times by schools and members of the public from across the UK and Northern Ireland.

GCHQ Christmas Challenge 2024

On Wednesday (December 11), GCHQ released its 2024 Christmas Challenge - which can be downloaded from its website.

The focus of this year's challenge is "the surprising geography of GCHQ" - which operates from several sites across the UK including Manchester, London, Scarborough, Bude and its headquarters in Cheltenham.

This year's GCHQ Christmas challenge features a series of seven puzzles, which range in difficulty and test different problem-solving skills, with the aim of finding a hidden message.

This year, for the first time, there are three additional elements hidden within the card for those who want to take on an extra challenge.

The puzzles focus on skills including:

  • Codebreaking
  • Maths and analysis
  • Lateral thinking
  • Ingenuity
  • Perseverance

Director GCHQ, Anne Keast-Butler, said:  “Puzzles have always been at the heart of GCHQ, and the skills needed to solve them are just as relevant in 2024 as they were over 100 years ago.

“This year’s Challenge features seven puzzles, plus several hidden elements for those who want an extra test. 

"The puzzles are aimed at teenagers and young people, but everyone is encouraged to give them a try – they might surprise you.

“The Challenge has been designed for a mix of minds to solve, so is best tackled in groups of classmates, families or friends.

"Whether you have an analytical mind, a creative brain or prefer engineering, there’s something for everyone.

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“As a mathematician, I also I'm passionate about STEM subjects and encouraging young people to give them a try.

"I hope the card will inspire young people to explore these STEM subjects and to consider what a career in cybersecurity and intelligence might have to offer.” 

The GCHQ Christmas Challenge 2024 is available now via its website (a link to which can be found above).