[eCTF] - Econet Capture The Flag

A new online code-cracking, digital hacking, treasure hunting game for 2026 attendees!

[eCTF]: The year is 1986. The Cold War is at its breaking point.

Somewhere across the globe, a stolen prototype holds the power to shift the balance of world power. You are a covert operative for The Foundation, armed with cutting-edge 1980’s technology and only a razor thin window of time as enemy agents are close.

Your mission: jack into the world's computer networks, hack into servers, find clues, outmanoeuvre rivals, connect with friendlies and track down the prototype's location before it falls into the wrong hands. Every second counts. Every decision matters. The clock is ticking. The fate of the world is yours to secure.

Do you have what it takes?

The Rules:

  1. The game is scored on time and points. Extra points are awarded for side quests completed. Sidequests may not be obvious. Points may be deducted for reasons.
  2. The Acorn Team would like everyone to have a great experience playing the game, so Play Nice!
  3. Do not remove clues or delete files to hinder other players. Do not shoulder surf other players. Do not leave clues on-screen if you're leaving your/a/the computer.
  4. Admins will be watching. Physically and virtually. Follow the wise lyrics of Egil Olsen.
  5. Cheats will be disqualified from the game and may be banned from future LAN Parties.
  6. The Chief Admins decision is final. No if's, no buts, no warnings, no second chances.
  7. Now go save the world Commander!

Really Helpful Hints:

  1. Read the clues.
  2. Take notes, in case you have to backtrack. But don’t let others see them!
  3. The way forward may not be obvious, but it's probably staring you in the face.
  4. If something isn't working or you get stuck, revisit the last clue or two - you've missed something.
  5. There will be (quite) some trial/error needed in places.
  6. Google won’t solve any clues, this is a brand new CTF, it will only waste time you don’t have!
  7. You may need a copy of the Encyclopedia Britannica (or equivalent) handy for reference.
  8. Remember it’s 1986, things were different, think accordingly.