Cybersecurity movie night: From fiction to reality

Of the many cybersecurity movies to pick from, a few stand out as excellent examples of how our culture has integrated the internet – and cybersecurity – into our consciousness. Five films that range from the early 1980s to the 21st century stand out.

• "WarGames" (1983). In a time when personal computers were still a novelty, "WarGames" introduced audiences to the thrilling and dangerous world of hacking. David Lightman, played by a young Matthew Broderick, is a high school student with a penchant for computer games and a knack for hacking. When he stumbles upon a backdoor into a U.S. military supercomputer, he unwittingly initiates a sequence of events that could lead to global thermonuclear war. David believes he's merely playing a game, and his innocent actions highlight the vulnerabilities of early computer systems and the potential catastrophic consequences of unchecked technological advancements. The film highlights the importance of secure systems, especially in critical infrastructures, and the ethical dilemmas faced by those in power. If you've ever wondered about the origins of the term "war dialing" or the real-world implications of a computer's inability to distinguish between simulation and reality, "WarGames" is a must-watch.
• "Sneakers" (1992). If you want to learn about the shadowy world of cryptography, surveillance, and espionage, then "Sneakers" is for you. Robert Redford leads a team of security specialists who are extorted into stealing a mysterious box. As they dig deeper, they discover that this box isn't just any device; it's capable of decrypting any encryption system in the world. The film brilliantly spotlights the power and importance of encryption in the digital age, emphasizing that in the wrong hands, such a tool could lead to global chaos. With a blend of humor, suspense, and technical jargon, "Sneakers" is a captivating exploration of trust, betrayal, and the lengths individuals will go to protect information.
• "The Matrix" (1999); "The Matrix Reloaded" (2003). "The Matrix" films aren’t just sci-fi masterpieces; they’re an homage to the world of cybersecurity. In "The Matrix," Keanu Reeves stars as Neo, a hacker who discovers that reality as he knows it is a simulated construct created by machines to subdue humans. This film explores concepts of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual realities, and the blurred lines between human and machine. In "The Matrix Reloaded," the character named Trinity confidently uses the real-life hacking tools called "nmap" and "sshnuke" on screen – a nod to a genuine appreciation for hacker culture. Beyond their iconic bullet-dodging scenes, these movies explore the dangers of unchecked AI, the potential consequences of a fully interconnected digital world, and the philosophical implications of technology and the nature of reality.
• "Blackhat" (2015). In a world of increasingly global cyberthreats, "Blackhat" offers a gritty, realistic portrayal of international cybercrime. Chris Hemsworth plays a convicted hacker released from prison to help U.S. and Chinese agencies track down a high-level cybercriminal. From the stock market to nuclear power plants, the film underscores the vast reach and devastating impact of cyberattacks. "Blackhat" examines the intricacies of the dark web and malware and the cat-and-mouse game between hackers and cybersecurity professionals. If you're looking for a film that captures the pulse of modern cyber warfare, "Blackhat" is a thrilling ride.
• "Snowden" (2016). Based on real events, "Snowden" offers a gripping look into the life of Edward Snowden, the whistleblower who exposed the vast surveillance apparatus of the U.S. government. Played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Snowden's journey from a patriotic employee to a fugitive is a deep dive into privacy and the moral dilemmas faced by those in the intelligence community. The film sheds light on the tools and techniques agencies use to monitor communications, raising critical questions about the balance between national security and individual privacy. For those curious about the real-world implications of mass surveillance and the sacrifices made by whistleblowers, "Snowden" is both an educational and emotional journey.

Each of these films, in their unique way, offers a cinematic exploration of the multifaceted world of cybersecurity. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just a movie lover, these cybersecurity movies promise to captivate, educate, and provoke thought on the digital challenges we face as organizations and individuals.

Key concepts illustrated in cybersecurity movies

Cybersecurity movies aren't just about entertainment; they can be educational, too. Some technical concepts that often make an appearance in cybersecurity movies include:

• Social engineering. Social engineering is a cunning strategy hackers employ to manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information. Key tactics in this deceptive arsenal include phishing, in which attackers masquerade as trusted entities via email or other communication channels; pretexting, in which hackers fabricate scenarios to obtain personal information; and tailgating, in which unauthorized individuals physically follow employees into restricted areas. "Catch Me If You Can" depicts the art of deception and pretexting brilliantly. "Sneakers" captures tailgating when Martin Bishop’s team manipulates its way into a secure building, showcasing that human vulnerabilities are sometimes easier to exploit than digital ones.
• Malware and viruses. Malicious software tools can steal, encrypt, or delete your data; alter or hijack core computer functions; and spy on your computer activity without your knowledge or permission. "Independence Day" shows the potentially devastating effects of a well-placed virus.
• The dark web. The dark web is a part of the internet hidden from traditional search engines, where illegal activities often occur. "Unfriended: Dark Web" gives viewers a glimpse into this shadowy realm.
• Encryption. Encryption is the science of coding and decoding information to protect its integrity and confidentiality. "Sneakers" and "The Imitation Game" portray scenarios in the world of codes and ciphers.
• Ethical hacking. Not all hackers are bad. Ethical hackers (also known as penetration testers) use their skills to find and fix security vulnerabilities. "Live Free or Die Hard" showcases the battle between malicious and ethical hackers.

The impact of cybersecurity movies on public perception

While cybersecurity movies have come a long way in portraying hacking realistically, a gap still exists between reel life and real life. Real hacking is methodical and often tedious, and it requires a deep understanding of computer systems. It's not just about typing furiously and bypassing firewalls in seconds. Filmmakers now often hire consultants to craft accurate depictions, but Hollywood still tends to prioritize drama over the realities of cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity movies, while entertaining, also play a significant role in shaping public perception. While they can sometimes oversimplify or dramatize, these films also raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. For many, cybersecurity movies serve as a first introduction to concepts such as data breaches or state-sponsored hacking. Moreover, these films can inspire a new generation to pursue careers in cybersecurity, seeing it not just as a job but as a mission to protect the digital realm.

Knowledge is power

In the realm of digital narratives, few things are as haunting as an insecure online environment. Organizations can take proactive steps to stay informed, vigilant, and above all, secure, and individuals who are informed – and inform themselves – about cybersecurity can play a significant role in improving the security posture of their workplaces and their home networks.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a good reminder that the realm of cybersecurity is not just about technology but also about global collaboration and shared responsibility. Organizations can take proactive steps to stay informed and empowered. Fostering a safer digital future is critical — and possible.