Can you solve GCHQ’s ‘fiendish’ Christmas puzzle? Put your spy skills to the test with this year’s brain-teaser

PUT your spy skills to the test with this year’s “fiendish” GCHQ Christmas puzzle.

Britain’s cyber spy agency has released seven brain-teasers in a Christmas card.

The puzzles use GCHQ’s bases in Manchester, London, Scarborough, Bude and Cheltenham as clues.

Each of the seven puzzles leads to a UK landmark – which are themselves clues for a final challenge.

There are also three extra “Easter egg” puzzles on the front cover of the card.

The puzzles are aimed at secondary school pupils, who are encouraged to work in teams to crack the code.

GCHQ chief Anne Keast-Butler said: “Puzzles have always been at the heart of GCHQ.

“The skills needed to solve them are just as relevant in 2024 as they were more than 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.

“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.”

To kick off the challenge, GCHQ has released a cryptic quote from the agency’s chief puzzler Colin.

It reads: “Can you find a secret message in Colin’s quote? If so you’re a star!

“We are delighted to be releasing the fourth iteration of our Christmas Challenge aimed at young people.

“And we hope this year’s set of seven puzzles are as fiendishly enjoyable as ever.

“We want teams working together to tackle the Challenge, which requires a range of skills and creative ways of thinking.

“And then see if you can find the Easter eggs we’ve hidden on the card. You may find naturally some parts trickier than others.

“However – as Anne Keast-Butler, our Director, said – solving puzzles requires a real mix of minds and approaches, just like the work at GCHQ.

“With this challenge lastly we also hope to show young people that thinking differently is a gift.

“We would really enjoy seeing how you get on with the Challenge, so please let us know by tagging us in a post on Instagram, X or LinkedIn.

“Happy puzzle-solving!”