Navigating the Code Book CD-ROM

The CD is packed full of information about codes and ciphers used throughout history. To find the areas you need, click on the symbol, which takes you to the main menu. Look for the sections you need there, or use the search tool in the top left hand corner.

Cipher Challenge

1. Caesar Shift Cipher

The ciphertext below has been enciphered using a Caesar shift. You have to work out how many places the message had been shifted. Copy the ciphertext message into the CIPHERTEXT box. Keep changing the number of shifts, and clicking on 'DECIPHER CIPHERTEXT', until the message makes sense.

CQNWD VKNAXO BQROC BRBCQ NBJVN JBCQN WDVKN AXOUN CCNAB RWCQN TNHFX AM

2. Frequency Analysis Puzzle

Decipher the 'Ox and the Frog'.

Go to the Frequency analysis puzzle, click on PICK CIPHERTEXT and select 'The Ox and the Frog' from the list on the left.

Once you have deciphered the whole message, have a look at which plaintext letter the 'Z' stands for. This is the first letter of the keyword.

*HINT: use the Code Breaking tips on the reverse of this booklet to help you crack the cipher.*

3. Enigma Emulator

The ciphertext below has been encoded using the Enigma Emulator. Set the Enigma machine up according to the instructions below and decipher the message.

*To change the settings on the Enigma Emulator, click on SHOW ENIGMA WIRING. To change the Plugboard settings, you have to click on 'PLUGBOARD SETTINGS' button on the left of the screen. Everything else can be changed using the arrows. Once you have set the Enigma machine up correctly, decipher the ciphertext by using the mouse to press the letters on the keyboard.*

Enigma Settings:

Reflector

Rotors

Rotor Settings

Plugboard

UKWB

II III V

04 10 20

AS BK CD EZ FX

GH IJ LT MN QR OP UY VW

FSPUN OJZDA ZWECT ZRUNP TCMWF VKTWE VBI

*HINT: BE CAREFUL! If you make a mistake, you will have to go right back to the beginning because the Enigma machine will not be on the right setting. Don't miss any letters out.*

ANSWERS:

1. The Keyword is _____ letters long

2. The Keyword starts with the letter ____

3. ______________________________________________

________________________________________________

KEYWORD: