Groove Jones worked with the National 4-H Council for a third time to build an engaging Web AR experience for their new online educational platform, CLOVER by 4-H. This AR experience will allow users to immerse themselves in the world and learn the importance of security in computer science, what it takes to encode and decipher data, and how to use their own cipher wheel!

Today, cyber security professionals use encryption modes to keep vast amounts of personal and confidential information safe. As people use technology to communicate via satellites over the internet, controlling and protecting private information is essential. Private information in the wrong hands can have serious, negative consequences. In this engaging web AR experience, students will better understand how important it is to keep private information safe!

Into the Cipher Space

Users will be prompted when they launch the AR experience on their mobile devices. This prompt will inform them to get ready to protect a satellite from a cyber-attack and how they will learn the importance of security in computer science, what it takes to encode and decipher data, and how to use a cipher wheel.

Upon scanning the user’s surroundings with their mobile device, the AR experience will begin.

They will be met with a cipher wheel hovering right in front of them, with prompts stating that they have been hacked and someone took control of the satellite, which is now on a collision course with another satellite.

Users will be asked to decipher encrypted messages using a cipher wheel to crack the codes! There are three deciphered phrases to crack by using the cipher wheel. Once each word is unlocked, the user will be welcomed with the phrase and its meaning.

Groove Jones incorporated interactive components about a cipher wheel, what it does, and how it can be used to protect a satellite from a cyber-attack. The exercise will conclude with an AR experience having the user regaining control of a satellite by deciphering encrypted messages and showcasing the importance of the following terms:

• Decipher – To take a secret message and reproduce the original plain text; to reverse the encryption.
• Encode – To convert information or instruction into a particular form.
• Data – Information stored by a computer, for example, files, emails, apps, video games, songs, and pictures.

About 4-H

4‑H is America’s largest youth development organization—empowering nearly six million young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. 4‑H is delivered by Cooperative Extension—a community of more than 100 public universities nationwide that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. For over 100 years, 4‑H has welcomed young people of all beliefs and backgrounds, giving kids a voice to express who they are and how they improve their lives and communities. Through life-changing 4‑H programs, nearly six million kids and teens have taken on critical societal issues, such as addressing community health inequities, engaging in civil discourse, and advocating for equity and inclusion for all.