Code Extension idea : Cracking the RSA encryption algorithm

After studying Asymmetric Encryption and in particular the RSA algorithm, as an extension, the teacher can use RSA with a relatively small public key to encrypt a plain text file. Students then compete alone or in groups to attack the weak public key to find the private key. This will allow them to decrypt the encrypted file, follow the instructions set out there (e.g send an email with the code used to the teacher’s school email) and win the prize.
This project generated great enthusiasm in my upper sixth students and is well worth a try.
I will upload a pack that will include code to generate the encrypted file, teacher’s notes, solution code and more as a separate download.