Security experts and viewers have been scrutinizing plot holes and inaccuracies in the BBC’s new drama series Nightsleeper.
The six-part thriller starring Peaky Blinders actor Joe Cole features a sleeper train traveling from Glasgow to London that has been hacked and hijacked, or ‘hack-jacked.’
In the show, the train is remotely operated after a suspect device is attached to the wiring in one of the carriages. However, analysts have raised doubts about the feasibility of such a scenario in real life, pointing out flaws in the drama created by BAFTA-winning writer Nick Leather.
Nightsleeper, unfolding in real-time across six one-hour episodes, has drawn comparisons to Jed Mercurio’s Bodyguard and the hit US show 24. Despite mixed reviews on social media, cybersecurity specialists have highlighted discrepancies in the show’s portrayal of cyber threats on national infrastructure.
Jake Moore, a global cybersecurity advisor, found the plot captivating but strained credibility. He noted that operating trains remotely poses significant threats to rail services, primarily through disruptions rather than endangering lives.
Another cybersecurity analyst, Alex Cowan, criticized the show for its unrealistic portrayal of emergency brakes, mobile phone signal blocking, train crew response, and lack of detection software. Despite some realistic elements, Cowan highlighted the show’s departure from reality in key areas.
Social media has been abuzz with contrasting views on Nightsleeper, with some viewers enjoying the thrill of the show while others criticize its unrealistic plot points. The National Cyber Security Centre also used the show as an opportunity to promote cybersecurity awareness and career opportunities.
Overall, Nightsleeper has sparked discussions about cybersecurity threats and the portrayal of such threats in popular media. Whether viewers find it entertaining or unrealistic, the show has certainly captured attention and sparked debate among audiences.