BEST VPN SERVICES
If you’ve ever searched for free movies or TV shows online, you would probably have come across 123Movies. Just like many other free streaming services you’ve seen, 123Movies looks harmless at first glance. This is because all you probably do is click and watch. However, so much more is going on that you know nothing about. These hidden activities are even riskier than they seem.
They put your device at risk of malware, phishing, and attacks that attempt to steal your passwords, browser cookies, and cryptocurrency wallets. In March 2018, 123Movies announced its shutdown after it was discovered to be the most illegal site in the world. It even urged users to support filmmakers and creators by paying for movies and TV shows. Yet, after its closure, we now have so many clones of 123Movies. Different mirrors like 123moviesfree.net, 123movies.is, and 123moviesfree.xyz keeps popping up, constantly changing domain names to avoid takedown.
What these clones do is summarized in these three things:
- Use Cloudflare masking to keep their real server locations safe.
- Host content on servers located in copyright-negligent countries like Panama, Seychelles, and Moldova.
- Earn revenue from adware networks like PopAds and PropellerAds.
Eventually, they make it hard for you to know if the 123Movies site you’re visiting today is the same one you last visited. In this guide, you’ll see why 123Movies is not safe, the risks involved, and the shady tactics the platform uses to stay alive.
Is 123 Movies Legal?
It is generally illegal to download or stream movies and television series without a proper license. That’s why streaming giants, such as Netflix, charge subscribers money. In short, they need to cover the cost of paying film and TV producers royalties. 123Movies and the subsequent clone sites, don’t have the proper authorisation, making the use of them illegal. On a positive note, most countries don’t prosecute the streamer, even though they are technically allowed to. They will go after the supplier. It’s safe to assume that 123Movies isn’t legal in your country. That includes the many subsidiaries associated with this site, such as:
- GoMovies
- 123movieshub
- Gostream
- Memovies
All these sites are likely illegal in your country. You can verify whether this is the case by checking the laws in your country, specifically on piracy and copywriting. For example, if you live in any of the following countries it’s illegal to pirate movies.
- United States
- United Kingdom
- France
- Germany
- Australia
- Italy
- South Africa
- Japan
- Finland
- China
The list is not exhaustive.
You should note, in recent years there has been a more determined effort to stamp out the viewing of copyrighted content without payment. In short, you’re more likely to be caught and punished, regardless of whether it’s 123Movies or another free streaming or downloading service.
Is 123Movies Safe?
You may think that the biggest issue is the risk of prosecution and a hefty fine. But, that is only part of the issue. Even if you live in a country that allows, or tolerates, the use of pirated content that doesn’t mean 123movies is safe to use. It is best to assume 123Movies is not safe to use. This is not just due to the possibility of malware and viruses.
The fact that the original site is now closed means access is only possible through alternate sites. You have no way of knowing if the third-party supplier you choose is affiliated with 123Movies or not. This site, its alternatives, and other websites offering similar services are notorious for malware and spyware. In short, your device can become infected, giving you all sorts of operating issues. Spyware can be used to monitor what you are doing on your device and even steal information. That’s going to cause you a lot of issues.
Fortunately, you can use a VPN to protect your data. VPNs encrypt the data between you and the service. They also hide your location. Some of these services even operate kill switches. These are designed to break the connection between you and the site when the VPN drops out. It can be frustrating but is an excellent way to protect your personal information.
Best VPNs for 123Movies
Of course, just as 123Movies isn’t safe, there are plenty of VPN services that offer dubious services. You need to choose a good VPN service.
Here are the best.
- NordVPN – Fast, secure VPN with a large server network and advanced privacy features.
- Surfshark – Affordable, unlimited-device VPN with strong security and ad-blocking.
- Proton VPN – Privacy-focused VPN from Switzerland with a strict no-logs policy.
1. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the best-known VPN operators in the world. It has an enviable reputation and is considered one of the most secure services available. Although there is a free trial period, this service does cost. But, the monthly charge is surprisingly cheap.
- NordVPN is the industry leader (by a long way)
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Superfast speeds
- 7,300+ servers in 115+ countries
- Strict no-logs policy
- Next-generation military-grade encryption
- DoubleVPN, double privacy
- 10 simultaneous device connections
- Great for: Safety, security, anonymity & peace of mind
- Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, iPad & iOS, Linux, routers, Apple TV, FireFox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and more
NordVPN will encrypt your data, allow you to choose what country you appear to be working from, and it offer two kill switches. They also check for malware when you’re downloading. It’s difficult to be safer wherever you are on the web. It’s worth noting signing up for an account allows you to protect six different devices.
What sets NordVPN apart is its consistently fast connections, making it ideal for 4K streaming and lag-free gaming. Independent audits confirm its no-logs claims and its proprietary NordLynx protocol ensures both speed and security. Plus, it works reliably in restrictive regions, thanks to obfuscated servers that hide VPN traffic.
Key Features
- Obfuscated Servers: These servers disguise VPN use as ordinary internet use, which can allow you to bypass networks that block 123Movies impostor sites.
- Double VPN: Sends your traffic through two countries instead of just one, so if 123Movies does log your visit, it will be difficult for anyone to trace your activity back to you.
- Kill Switch: Stopping your internet connection skillfully if your VPN connection fails to avoid accidental IP leaks while you enjoy your favorite content.
- NordLynx Protocol: It maintains a speedy, lag-free experience whether you’re watching in HD or jumping from server to server looking for a clone to unlock.
- Server Coverage: With more than 7,400 servers in 110+ countries, you’re never left without an accessible server, no matter which 123Movies clone site is live.
2. Surfshark
Surfshark is another extremely well-known VPN service. It can be used with virtually any device and there are no limits to the number of devices you can protect. If you’re splitting access with friends or constantly switching devices to find something to watch on 123Movies, then Surfshark is just what the doctor ordered. It conceals your traffic nicely and offers unlimited device connections.
- Surfshark is the best budget VPN
- 30-day risk-free trial
- Strict no-logs policy
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- Unlimited simultaneous device connections
- Great for: private browsing on a budget
- Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone & iOS, Linux, FireFox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and more
It also encrypts your data and allows you to select a location. Ad and malware protection is also included in your subscription. Surfshark is a little cheaper than VPNNord, making it a viable alternative. Speed isn’t an issue, thanks to its WireGuard-based protocol (Surfshark Nexus), which balances performance and security smoothly. The service operates over 3,200 servers in 100 countries, including virtual locations for better flexibility. A standout feature is CleanWeb, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware before they even load, making browsing faster and safer.
What makes Surfshark shine is its value for money. Unlike pricier rivals, it bundles extras like antivirus, private search, and even data breach alerts in its higher-tier plans. Independent audits back its privacy claims, and its Camouflage Mode helps users in restrictive countries fly under the radar. For those wanting premium VPN features without the premium price tag, Surfshark is a smart pick.
Key Features
- Camouflage Mode: Disguises your VPN use to look like regular internet traffic, which can be useful if you’re using a VPN in a country where they’re suspected to be illegal.
- WireGuard Support: Fast and secure for streaming movies on ad-ridden mirrors.
- Dynamic MultiHop: Enabling you to progress your traffic through any two VPN servers of your choice – great if you want to take control and increase the masking.
- Global Coverage: With 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, streaming in any 123Movies-unblocked region is easy.
3. Proton VPN
Privacy-focused VPN with a free option, ideal for occasional streaming. If you’re just streaming the occasional movie or need a free, safe option, Proton VPN has got you covered, especially as it doesn’t limit your bandwidth.
Speed takes a slight hit due to its focus on security, but Proton VPN’s Secure Core architecture routes traffic through privacy-friendly countries like Switzerland and Iceland before exiting, adding an extra layer of anonymity. With 3,000+ servers in 69 countries, it’s great for bypassing censorship, though streaming performance can be hit-or-miss compared to rivals. The free tier is surprisingly robust, though limited—just no sneaky data-selling like other “free” VPNs.
Where Proton VPN truly stands out is its commitment to ethics. It operates under strict Swiss privacy laws, refuses to compromise with governments on user data, and funds its free service through paid subscriptions rather than ads or tracking. Features like Tor over VPN and perfect forward secrecy make it a favorite among journalists and activists. If privacy is your top priority, few VPNs match Proton’s credibility.
Key Features
- Stealth Protocol: Obfuscate VPN traffic to go through the firewall filters, and anti-VPN tools such as the ones used by Fortinet or Umbrella DNS, which are the ones that are blocking the domains of 123Movies.
- Secure Core Routing – Your connection is relayed through privacy-protecting countries before reaching mirror 123Movies, reducing risk.
- Broad Device Compatibility: Run on mobile, PC, Linux, and some locked-down Chromebooks (it requires manual installation).
Legal Considerations
Aside from malware, you’re exposing yourself to serious legal trouble when you use sites like 123Movies. In countries with tight laws, if you’re caught, they could fine you heavily for copyright infringement. In places like the U.S., you might be forced to pay between $200 to $150,000 for each infringement. In Germany, streaming illegal content can incur fines reaching 900€ to 1,500€. In the UK, ISPs, such as Sky Broadband, voluntarily block copies of 123Movies, and the government can prosecute any repeat offenders.
Also, Comcast / Xfinity actively throttles or blocks traffic to suspected piracy websites (including 123Movies) around the clock. Some schools and jobs might be monitoring web traffic as well. You may face disciplinary actions, including suspension or expulsion if you stream over a school or corporate network.
Trackers as a Privacy Violation
Most 123Movies clones have third-party trackers such as Google Analytics, AdMaven, and PropellerAds running on them. The tools record your IP address, the list of sites you visit, and even information about your devices, and sometimes send your private data directly to untrusted advertising networks or worse, authorities who specialize in copyright infringement.
Mitigation Strategies: How to Stay Safe (If You Must Visit 123Movies)
We do not recommend 123Movies, but if you must, at least take certain steps to minimize your risks:
Heavy-Duty Ad-Blocking
Combining with uBlock Origin (free for Chrome/Firefox). Use these custom filters:
- ||123movies.*##.popunder
- ||123movies. ##iframe[src=”propellerads”]
This will block the majority of pop-unders and adware-infested frames from 123Movies copies.
Secure Your DNS
Switch your DNS settings to NextDNS, and use their “Threat Intelligence Feed” to block known malware domains such as:
- coinimp.com
- adserv.pro
- popcash.net
Isolate Your Browser
Never use your regular browser for sketchy streaming.
Instead:
- Visit 123Movies in Brave Browser’s Tor window or
- Run your browser in Sandboxie (e.g., the free Sandbox tool) so the malware can’t reach your system.
Virus-Scan Every Link
Before you click, paste dubious links into sites like:
- VirusTotal.com
- Hybrid Analysis
These free scanners let you know whether a link has been blacklisted for malware or phishing.
Accessing 123Movies
Viruses are abundant on the web, it’s not just sites like 123Movies. Before you do anything online you should add good anti-virus software. One of the best currently offered is Norton or Bitdefender. But, Surfshark and Nord offer their anti-virus software which can be included with your VPN subscription. A VPN will also help when you access 123Movies as there is no longer a direct route. You need to access the site via a third-party site. Unfortunately, doing it this way means that there is no guarantee the third-party site has any real involvement with the original site. In short, it’s difficult to hold any site accountable, even if they are stealing your data.
The following steps should be taken when accessing 123Movies.
- Download and install your chosen VPN for 123Movies provider.
- Make sure all your anti-virus and malware software is up to date.
- Check whether it is legal to access 123Movies in your country.
- Access the 123Movies site via your chosen third-party mirror.
- Stream or download the desired content and enjoy – the VPN will keep your data safe.
Don’t forget, there is no guarantee of quality when downloading or streaming in this way. You may be disappointed with the results.
What Happens If You’re Caught Using 123Movies?
The exact consequences will depend on where you live. The first thing to note is that legally there is no difference between streaming and downloading. But downloading is easier to trace.
Streaming
When you stream content you are accessing a live stream. That means data is sent to your device, you watch it and then it disappears from your computer. It’s harder to trace as the only evidence you’ve streamed is hidden in your computer files.
Downloading
In contrast, downloading puts the content on your hard drive. You can access it anytime but the file will also show anyone looking that you have been downloading illegal content. The penalty for downloading or streaming illegally depends on where you live. In most cases, it is a fine. However, penalties can be more severe. When streaming nothing is left on your computer as evidence. But, your IP address can be tracked while the streaming is in process. This allows investigators to locate your home and prosecute. If you’re found to be streaming illegally it is possible, even in a country that prosecutes, they will ignore you and focus on the suppliers. But, is that a risk you want to take when the punishment could be a fine, imprisonment, or worse?
Dealing With A Virus After Using 123Movies
It’s possible to get a virus or malware from almost any website. However, it’s much more likely when using 123Movies or one of its mirror sites.
Any device can be infected and, if this happens, you’ll probably notice one of the following:
- Your default browser has changed – you may not even have heard of the new browser before.
- The device is working much slower than normal and appears to be busy even when you are doing nothing.
- A lack of storage space – viruses often eat through the available storage to make it impossible to use your device.
- Your system regularly freezes.
- A personal email account sends messages to contacts without your notice, inviting them to open an attachment. It’s the virus trying to spread.
If you suspect you have a virus or any sort of malware, whether you’ve been using 123Movies or another site, you need to do the following:
- Disconnect from the internet to deprive them access to your system
- Restart your device in safe mode
- Scan using your pore-installed virus and malware scanner. If you don’t have one you’ll need to install it before you disconnect
- Search your program list and remove any unknown programs
- Reconnect to the internet and re-scan your device
- If necessary, save all your vital files and then wipe the computer and reload the original operating system
Legal Sites Like 123Movies Worth Considering
The appeal of 123Movies and similar sites is obvious. You get to see the latest movies and television shows and you don’t have to pay for the privilege. It’s much faster than waiting to view the same thing on an official channel. But, the fact that these sites are often illegal, the content is poor, and there is a large risk of viruses and malware means you may prefer to use a legitimate viewing option. After all, sometimes waiting is half the fun. The following legal sites are good 123Movies alternatives and will provide regular updates on upcoming titles.
1. Netflix
Netflix offers a wide array of programs and movies. Much of the content is original but you’ll find some Hollywood blockbusters. There is simply a delay before they make it to the streaming site. The site offers plenty to keep you interested. It’s affordable and, most importantly, completely legal and virus-free. They may not have the latest Hollywood blockbusters but they do have some great options. Netflix has a low monthly cost but this increases if you want to use it on multiple devices at the same time.
2. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime also has an extensive collection of original films. This is a video-on-demand (VOD) service. Simply pay a monthly fee and access as many films and programs as you wish, without any extra charge. There are 100+ channels available with content from a variety of third parties, including Paramount. The monthly charge is reasonable and you can use it on multiple devices.
3. Disney
Disney is one of the biggest entertainment names in the world. It’s the perfect subscription for anyone who is a fan of Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, Disney products, and National Geographic. That’s just a small selection of the content available. Disney allows you to create an array of profiles on one account. Every member of the family can personalize their access and ensure they are seeing what they want to see. Disney allows you to view programs from four different devices at the same time. That makes it a great family option.
Better Free (Legal) Alternatives to 123Movies
You don’t have to risk malware or lawsuits to watch movies for free.
Here are safer, legal options:
| Platform | Free? | Ads? | Highlights |
| Tubi | Yes | Yes | 20,000+ movies, no malware risks |
| Pluto TV | Yes | Yes | Live movie channels + news |
| Crackle | Yes | Yes | Sony-owned, solid movie library |
| Popcornflix | Yes | Yes | Focused on indie and classic films |
Pro Tip: These platforms are ad-supported, but the ads are safe and regulated, not loaded with viruses.
The Hidden Costs of Piracy
Every time you use a site like 123Movies, you’re not just risking your device and personal safety; you’re part of a much bigger problem. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, online piracy drains about $29 billion from the American economy every year. That’s lost jobs, slashed movie budgets, and fewer original shows and films being made. By choosing free, legal streaming services, you’re helping creators continue to produce the content we all love — safely and ethically.
Regional Alternatives to 123Movies
Different countries have different (safe) streaming options. Here’s what to use instead:
- India: JioCinema — Free Bollywood movies and shows.
- United Kingdom: BBC iPlayer — Free movies, series, and live TV (geo-restricted to the UK).
- United States: Plex, Tubi, and Pluto TV — Massive free movie catalogs.
- Canada: CBC Gem — Canadian TV shows and indie films, free with ads.
Why 123Movies is Dangerous
You’re not just greeted with ads when you visit most of the 123Movies clone sites, there’s usually a host of other dangers lurking. Here’s what is happening when you visit most of these clone sites:
Fake Video Players
These sites lure you to download some fake video players. Meanwhile, they hide malware like the RedLine Stealer, which can easily steal your passwords, browser cookies, and cryptocurrency wallet data. Also, you might see prompts asking you to “update your player”. It’s best to ignore those prompts to avoid a compromised device.
Cryptojacking Scripts Hidden in Ads
Some clones might inject scripts like CoinIMP into your browser. You won’t even know that your device’s CPU is now mining some cryptocurrency in the background. This mining activity slows your system and also increases energy bills.
Phishing Pop-Ups Mimicking Netflix or Hulu
123Movies clones will sometimes throw fake pop-up windows designed to look like legit Netflix or Hulu login pages. If you enter your password here, you’ve automatically handed over your streaming account to the hackers.
Fake CAPTCHA Checks
Clones might trick you with the “verify you’re human.” CAPTCHA pages. I23Movies clones often install adware like Search Baron in those Captchas. They hijack your browser and flood you with unwanted ads.
Spyware Disguised as Anti-Virus Alerts
Another thing that could happen is that a 123Movies clone might pose a “Microsoft Defender” warning. If you click this pop-up, it leads to SpyNote RATs, which are remote access tools that spy through your webcam or steal banking information.
Summing Up
When asking if 123Movies is safe or not, the bottom line is simple. It’s not. In many cases, it’s not even legal. That means the decision whether to use it or not is entirely yours. Whatever you decide, it’s worth adding a VPN to your devices. This will allow you to safely use legal and illegal streaming and downloading services. It will protect you when you visit any site on the internet.
You can also use the VPN to change your location. This helps to keep you safe from scammers and allows you to access legal streaming services not available in your country of residence. 123Movies is now only accessible through associated sites. That increases the risk of viruses and malware significantly. The safe option is to avoid this streaming service and use one of the paid ones mentioned above. It may cost you financially but that’s less than a fine or dealing with the fallout from a virus attack.
Written by Trevor Cooke
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