In todays world, media outlets like Hollywood, Netflix, Hulu, or other streaming services that create shows that involve cybersecurity influences the publics understanding in a way that can be described as informative, but not harmless. In most, if not all types of media regarding cybersecurity, it’s often shown that the hacker is often a very capable, intelligent individual that usually is successful in their endeavor. Whether it be through social engineering or phishing attacks, lots of shows and movies show how hackers can gain information from the average person. They can also show in great detail the process of how a hacker conducts their practice and the layers of security they have to go through in order to complete their task.

For anyone unfamiliar with cybersecurity, these instances can be very informative, however, the various platforms these can be seen on can often times take creative liberties when using certain terms incorrectly. This can be harmful for someone who is trying to learn about the intricacies of cybersecurity. Obviously, one could argue to not learn their cybersecurity terminology from movies and T.V. shows, but they are such a widespread medium that teeters on the line between reality and fiction, it’s understandable that to the average person, the information presented to them can easily be taken at face value.

Cybersecurity in the media is often depicted as an antagonistic and shady practice but is also shown to be a very intricate and important tool for our society to function. Overall I would say that cybersecurity is depicted in a more positive light. Hopefully this would entice more of the public to have a better understanding of what cybersecurity is really about.