Popular culture phenomena can be a useful reference in the process of socialization. An emotionally engaging film or literary message is a more effective way of influencing than traditional pedagogy and its discourses, often not related to the real life and values of a contemporary man. The issue of security - a phenomenon so widely taken up in public discourse - can also be analyzed in relation to contemporary forms of pop culture. Such an example is Lisbeth Salander - a heroine created by Stieg Larsson. The analysis of the phenomenon of popularity of this character may bring many interesting conclusions about the way the world is perceived by the modern generation in the context of social change, perception of threats, understanding of personal security and the role of state institutions responsible for the safety of citizens.