Last Updated on March 7, 2025

Digital Care Hub has launched the first-ever Cyber Game for adult social care providers to learn about cyber security and data protection. The Cyber Game was developed by Digital Care Hub as part of the Cyber Resilient Care programme. It was funded by the Department for Science Innovation and Technology and Innovate UK’s Cyber Local Fund. This is the first game on cyber security specifically created for adult social care staff.

Cyber threats are a growing concern in social care, with data breaches, phishing scams, and cyber attacks putting sensitive information and care services at risk. However, according to the Digital Care Hub, learning about cyber security can often feel overwhelming or complex. The Cyber Game seeks to change that by making learning interactive, accessible, and enjoyable for care managers, care workers, and other staff members.

The game presents real-world scenarios relevant to adult social care settings, helping players identify and respond to cyber risks in a safe environment. Whether it is spotting a phishing email or ensuring secure data sharing, players gain valuable skills that can protect their organisation from cyber threats.

The Cyber Game features a range of relatable characters and workplace situations, bringing cyber security challenges to life. Players can take on the role of a registered manager, a data protection lead or a care worker dealing with realistic cyber threats.

Each scenario is based on actual cyber incidents. The aim is to manage the crisis effectively. Players need to contain the damage, notify the right people and implement improvements to prevent future incidents. Just as in real life, the decisions they make will impact security, time and cost. It is all about balancing risks and impact. Move too quickly and they might overlook a key security issue. Move too slowly and they could cause unnecessary and expensive disruption.

Commenting on the Cyber Game launch, Daniel O’Shaughnessy, Head of Programme Delivery at the Digital Care Hub, said, 'We created the Cyber Game because traditional cyber security training can sometimes feel dry or difficult to engage with. By turning it into a game, we make it more accessible, enjoyable, and memorable.

'Gamification encourages active participation, helps players retain information better, and provides instant feedback on decisions. This approach is especially valuable in social care, where staff are already juggling multiple responsibilities. The Cyber Game allows them to learn at their own pace in a way that feels rewarding and practical.'

Play the game online on the Digital Care Hub website here.

In other news, Government has announced a 7.7% increase in funding for care homes providing nursing care in the community.