In the digital age, the world of hacking has become a fertile ground for horror filmmakers to explore the dark side of technology. This curated list of 10 horror films about hackers delves into the psychological and physical terrors that can arise from the misuse of technology. From cyberstalking to virtual reality nightmares, these films offer a thrilling mix of suspense, fear, and the unknown, making them a must-watch for fans of both horror and tech-thriller genres.

Brainstorm (1983)
Description: Scientists invent a machine that records and plays back human experiences, but when the technology falls into the wrong hands, it becomes a tool for psychological horror.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the concept of virtual reality, predating the term's widespread use.


WarGames (1983)
Description: A young hacker unwittingly accesses a military supercomputer, nearly triggering World War III. While not strictly a horror film, the tension and potential for global catastrophe make it a chilling watch.
Fact: The film led to the establishment of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act in the U.S. due to its depiction of computer security issues.


The Lawnmower Man (1992)
Description: This film explores the dark side of virtual reality and cybernetics, where a mentally challenged man gains intelligence through experimental technology, leading to disastrous results.
Fact: The film was loosely based on a Stephen King short story, but King disowned the film due to its significant deviations from his original work.


Hackers (1995)
Description: Although more of a techno-thriller, "Hackers" includes elements of suspense and fear as young hackers are drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a corporate criminal.
Fact: The film's depiction of hacking was criticized for its inaccuracies but has since become a cult classic for its style and portrayal of hacker culture.


The Net (1995)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, "The Net" explores the terrifying prospect of identity theft and cyberstalking, themes that resonate deeply in today's digital world.
Fact: The film was one of the first to address the concept of digital identity theft, making it prophetic in its predictions.


The Thirteenth Floor (1999)
Description: This film delves into virtual reality and the concept of simulated worlds, where characters question their own reality, leading to a psychological horror experience.
Fact: The film was released shortly after "The Matrix," leading to comparisons between the two, though it was based on a novel published in


Pulse (2006)
Description: This American remake of the Japanese film "Kairo" involves a virus that spreads through the internet, causing the dead to return and haunt the living. It's a chilling exploration of how technology can blur the lines between life and death.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Kristen Bell, who plays a minor character.


The Signal (2007)
Description: A group of friends are lured to a remote location by a mysterious hacker, only to find themselves trapped in a psychological horror scenario. The film plays with the concept of hacking into reality itself.
Fact: The film was shot in just 18 days, and its low budget contributed to its raw, intense atmosphere.


Unfriended (2014)
Description: This found-footage horror film revolves around a group of friends who are haunted by a mysterious figure during a Skype call, revealing dark secrets and leading to horrifying consequences. It's a unique take on the horror genre by using the digital interface as the primary setting.
Fact: The entire movie was shot in real-time, and the actors were actually using Skype during filming, adding to the film's realism.


The Den (2013)
Description: A documentary filmmaker inadvertently captures a murder through a video chat service, leading her into a terrifying online world where she becomes the next target. The film explores the dangers of the internet and voyeurism.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life incidents of online voyeurism and the dark web.
