In an era where our lives are increasingly digital, understanding the cyber threats that lurk in the shadows is more crucial than ever. This curated list of documentaries sheds light on the intricate world of cybercrime, hacking, and digital espionage. From the stories of notorious hackers to the inner workings of cyber defence, these films offer a fascinating glimpse into the high-stakes game of digital security. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or simply curious about the unseen battles in cyberspace, these documentaries are a must-watch to grasp the complexities and the real-world implications of cyber threats.
We Steal Secrets: The Story of WikiLeaks (2013)
Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at WikiLeaks, its founder Julian Assange, and the impact of their leaks on global politics and security.
Fact: Directed by Alex Gibney, this film offers a balanced view of WikiLeaks, featuring interviews with both supporters and critics of the organization.
Watch Now
The Internet's Own Boy: The Story of Aaron Swartz (2014)
Description: This poignant documentary tells the story of Aaron Swartz, a programming prodigy and activist who faced legal battles over his efforts to make information freely available.
Fact: The film was released under a Creative Commons license, reflecting Swartz's own beliefs about open access to information.
Watch Now
Citizenfour (2014)
Description: This film documents Edward Snowden's revelations about the NSA's global surveillance programs, offering an insider's perspective on the scale of government surveillance and its impact on privacy.
Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film's title refers to the pseudonym Snowden used when he first contacted filmmaker Laura Poitras.
Watch Now
Risk (2016)
Description: Laura Poitras follows Julian Assange and WikiLeaks, exploring the ethical dilemmas and personal risks involved in exposing government secrets.
Fact: The film was initially released in 2016 but was later re-edited and re-released in 2017 with additional footage and a different perspective on Assange.
Watch Now
Deep Web (2015)
Description: This documentary investigates the Silk Road, an online black market, and the subsequent trial of its founder Ross Ulbricht, shedding light on the dark web and its implications for law enforcement.
Fact: The film features interviews with Ulbricht's mother, offering a personal perspective on the case.
30 Days Free
The Hacker Wars (2014)
Description: Focuses on the lives of hacktivists like Andrew Auernheimer, Jeremy Hammond, and Barrett Brown, exploring the motivations behind their actions and the legal consequences they faced.
Fact: The film includes interviews with the subjects themselves, providing a firsthand account of their experiences.
30 Days Free
Zero Days (2016)
Description: This film delves into the Stuxnet virus, a cyberweapon that targeted Iran's nuclear program, revealing the covert operations of cyber warfare and the potential for digital attacks to escalate into physical conflicts.
Fact: The film was directed by Alex Gibney, an acclaimed documentary filmmaker known for his investigative work. It was screened at the Berlin International Film Festival.
30 Days Free
The Great Hack (2019)
Description: Explore how Cambridge Analytica used personal data to influence elections, highlighting the ethical and legal implications of data misuse in the digital age.
Fact: The documentary features interviews with key figures involved in the scandal, including whistleblower Christopher Wylie. It was nominated for an Emmy Award.
30 Days Free
The Most Dangerous Town on the Internet (2019)
Description: Set in Râmnicu Vâlcea, Romania, this documentary uncovers how this small town became a global hub for cybercrime, revealing the human stories behind the digital threats.
Fact: The film was produced by BBC Panorama, known for its investigative journalism.
30 Days Free
Hackers Wanted (2009)
Description: Chronicles the life of Adrian Lamo, a hacker who turned informant, and explores the ethical and legal dilemmas faced by hackers in the digital age.
Fact: The film was initially released in 2009 but was later re-released with additional content in
30 Days Free
