Australian Signals Directorate

We’re excited to share the story of Helen Kenny, a trailblazing woman who served in No.11 Cipher Section during WWII. Helen's education and skills were instrumental in her work, breaking codes and signals to support the war effort. What an inspiring example of dedication and intelligence!

Did you know the first super computer to be installed at ASD, the Cray X-MP, was installed in 1986, back when ASD was called Defence Signals Directorate? At the time it was believed to be the most powerful computer in the southern hemisphere. The $2 million Cray also needed a large cooling system, which was incorporated into a bench seat. It also wasn’t small - weighing in at 4.5 tons. Read all about it here 👉 https://lnkd.in/gjmDYXp8

As part of ASD's Blueprint for Secure Cloud, we have recently published Microsoft 365 Desired State Configuration (M365DSC) files and guidance on blueprint.asd.gov.au and GitHub. The Blueprint is an online tool that supports the design, configuration and deployment of collaborative and secure cloud and hybrid workspaces. M365DSC supports organisations with configuring new Microsoft 365 tenants by partially automating deployment of the recommended configuration in the Blueprint. When using M365DSC, ensure you consider the different design decisions and guidance in the Blueprint, which can be customised according to your unique requirements. We will continue to update the Blueprint with the latest cyber security advice, and using insights from working closely with our partners. Read more 👉 https://lnkd.in/gWe7FTYn

Microsoft has released its June security updates. This update included: •            51 vulnerabilities patched. •            0 vulnerabilities with evidence of exploitation. •            1 'Critical' rated. The ASD’s ACSC encourages all users to apply the available patch updates ASAP. For more details, visit the Microsoft Security Response Centre website 👉 https://lnkd.in/e_NKr8j9

Calling all high schoolers in years 10-12 across Australia 📣 Are you up for a cyber challenge? Registrations are now open for the PECAN+ Capture The Flag 2024 competition on 3 & 4 August across Australia! The ASD sponsored event will see you test your skills in cryptography, forensics, open-source intelligence and more! Register by 28 June to dive into the world of cyber security. Plus, get a taste of the style and complexity of the CTF event with free practice challenges. Register and practice at pecanplus.ecusdf.org. #PECANplus2024 Don’t forget, if you have an edge for cyber security or career aspirations to work in the industry you can check out our own puzzles and cyber skills challenges 👉 https://lnkd.in/gi5i634W

Are you a bit of a word sleuth? Can you find the 13 words related to ASD’s functions, cyber guidance and programs? Learn more about who we are and what we do 👉 asd.gov.au

Registrations for the Girls’ Programming Network (GPN) term 2 workshops are now open. These free and interactive workshops are designed to inspire and support girls in grades 6-12 who are passionate about coding or programming. As proud sponsors of Canberra’s GPN, we are delighted to support their work developing and championing girls in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Sign up 👉 https://lnkd.in/gBV_vjw9

Fake websites and emails from cybercriminals have become more convincing with time, but there’s no shame in falling victim to cybercrime. There are sources available to help you bounce back. Our website will guide you to the right support for: • scams • spam phone calls, emails or text messages • hacking • cyberbullying and illegal, inappropriate or offensive online content • child exploitation or grooming • responding to data breaches and identity theft • fraudulent or misleading content from an Australian business • financial misconduct or misconduct of an Australian company • mishandling of personal details by a government department or private organisation • discrimination or human rights concerns • defamatory content. For details on the organisations that specialise in these areas visit 👉 https://lnkd.in/gXrkir_M

Tax time is here and it's crucial to stay cyber aware. Don't risk your online security when you access financial information or lodge your tax return. Be wise and follow best practices to protect yourself. Learn the warning signs to help you avoid scams this tax season 👉 https://lnkd.in/gMktST48

❗ ALERT ❗ Unauthorised access attempts against Australian instances of Snowflake have been detected. Australian organisations who utilise Snowflake should reset credentials for active accounts, disable non-active accounts, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and review user activity. Read the alert here 👉 https://lnkd.in/gdCUHn9C