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The Risks of Streaming TV and Movies Illegally (And How to Avoid Them)

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Monthly subscription fees for streaming services can add up quickly, but sidestepping that cost through illegal streaming platforms can lead to serious risks. Thankfully, plenty of free options are much safer—and with the added protection of a VPN, you can enjoy your content without compromising your security.

 

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Illegal streaming methods put you at considerable risk

Illegal streaming websites may seem like an easy fix, but using them to bypass subscription fees comes with built-in hidden dangers.

It’s important to remember that illegal streaming platforms need to make money. Although many piracy services depend on common income streams, like advertising, donations, affiliate marketing, and subscription services, the majority depend heavily on selling user data to keep the lights on.

At a minimum, that means streaming content illegally leaves you vulnerable to identity theft since platforms like this often track and collect sensitive data.

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Piracy sites are also riddled with malware and viruses that can infect your devices, leading to anything from exposure to age-inappropriate content to serious system failures. Beyond that, there are legal consequences for watching pirated content—ranging from fines to potential lawsuits.

Instead of risking your digital safety, one layer of protection is to explore legal streaming options that offer both entertainment and security.

 

The-Risks-of-Streaming-TV-and-Movies-Illegally-(And-How-to-Avoid-Them)

Which free streaming platforms are both legal and safe?

Perhaps surprisingly, many free streaming services offer great content without putting you at risk.

The most notable free streaming services are:

  • Tubi: Offers a wide selection of TV shows and movies, from classics to newer releases with ads.
  • Pluto TV: Paramount Global’s pioneer in IPTV service; provides a range of content, including news, sports, and entertainment with ads.
  • Kanopy and Hoopla: Includes critically acclaimed indie and international films; requires a library card for access.
  • The Roku Channel & Crackle: Offers a mix of mainstream, classic, and original shows and movies.
  • Vudu and YouTube: Vudu has a free section for legal movie streaming with ads; YouTube also offers free streaming with ads.

 

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Image credit: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/man-watching-his-favorite-movie-tv_16624499.htm

Using a VPN keeps your information safe

Avoiding illegal platforms is an excellent place to begin shoring up your online defenses, but even services that boast the infrastructure to protect against data breaches aren’t guaranteed.

The Roku Channel recently reported a massive security breach, and even Disney+ was hit by hackers not long after its launch. So, while data breaches are less common on platforms where streaming is legal, they do happen.

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This is one of many instances where using a virtual private network (VPN) can save you a lot of grief.

By encrypting your data, a VPN makes it much harder for hackers to steal your personal information, no matter where you are. This is especially critical when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often prime targets for cybercriminals.

Even when connected to questionable or unsecured networks, a VPN gives you an extra protection against potential threats.

Your viewing habits and personal details remain confidential and secure by masking your IP address. Put another way: a VPN doesn’t just improve your streaming experience—it protects your entire online presence.

 

Other benefits of combining IPTV with a VPN

One big advantage of combining your favorite IPTV with a VPN is its ability to prevent ISP throttling. Internet Service Providers sometimes intentionally bottleneck your connection speed while streaming to conserve network traffic. This leads to longer buffering and poor video quality. Using a VPN is one of the best ways to counter this type of throttling, and it works by encrypting your data to disguise your online activities. This results in smoother, high-quality streaming without interruptions.

A VPN can also be invaluable for anyone traveling abroad. Each VPN allows you to toggle the region your connection travels through, bypassing regional restrictions to stream your favorite shows and movies as if you were back home, no matter where you are. This means uninterrupted access to the content you love, regardless of your location.

Scammers are a digital threat everyone should take seriously, and illegal streaming just isn’t worth the risk. And for added peace of mind, consider using a VPN to protect your online activity and enhance your streaming experience.

 

Recommended:

  1. Bought a Brand New Mac? Here Are 9 Things You Should Do to Make It Even More Secure
  2. The Next Frontier in Communication
  3. Ways to Keep Your Device Safe from Malware & Hackers

 

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