Neat coincidence you're doing this in preparation for Ludum Dare, I actually started doing this a year ago with the intent of practicing for Ludum Dare!
We don't have an IRC or anything, mostly because "we" is basically just me and and a few unfocused friends so far. This fortnight there are a lot more people who've joined the jam, so I expect the community will grow as the fortnights drag on. Until it's large enough to warrant a proper IRC channel though, this forum is the best place to come to. Personally I check #casual14 on twitter and tumblr from time to time.
Net Security is a neat field I hear, and starting programming young is the best way to learn, so good luck!