One of the most popular forms of entertainment is watching movies on the Internet; it is comfortable and there is a great selection. But it also has its drawbacks that threaten your privacy and security of your accounts and other sensitive data. In this blog post, six security dangers that you should be aware of are discussed along with recommended measures to avoid them.
Malware and Viruses
However, most of the time, when you are using the unknown or the malicious streaming sites, you are likely to get a virus. These are programs that can get into your device through pop-ups, fake download buttons, or even through the video player. Once your device is infected, it causes a theft of your data, unauthorized access to your data, and sometimes the complete failure of the device.
In order to avoid getting a virus or a malware on your device, make sure you only use trusted streaming sites. Also, ensure that your antivirus is updated and that you have efficient anti-malware applications with you. Do not follow the links to ads and downloads, and it is recommended to install the plug-ins that prevent pop-ups and ads.
Furthermore, constantly perform malware check on your device and make sure that your operating system is updated all the time with security updates. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your device and its security.
Phishing Scams
Another type of menace that is evident when watching movies online is phishing scams. This is because hackers develop look-alike streaming websites that are just identical with genuine ones with the intention of robbing you of your login details, credit card details, and other personal details. Most of the time, these websites make you register or input your credit card number to view the content.
In cases where one is likely to provide personal details, ensure that the URL of the streaming website is correct. The URL of the site should contain HTTPS and it is recommended to check the site’s credibility through the reviews of others. In case you are notified through an email or message to log in or pay some amount, ensure that the notification is genuine.
Further, never provide your personal details through email or messages if you are not very much sure about the identity of the person. Always employ the use of MFA every time you are creating an account or logging into an account to enhance security.
Data Privacy Issues
In some cases, while using the free streaming services, you may be asked to sign up or share some of your details. Some of these platforms harvest and sell the users’ data to other parties without their knowledge. This data can include your browsing habits, location and other details and can result in issues such as targeted ads, identity theft and others.
A way to solve this problem is to use VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). VPNs can hide your IP address and encode your internet connection, which makes it challenging for other entities to monitor your browsing history. Through connecting to Australian servers, you can be able to watch movies that are only allowed to be accessed within Australia even when you are in another country. It is always advisable to go for VPN providers who have no-logging policies and use strong encryption standards.
Finally, in order to minimize the amount of information that can be gathered about you, change the settings of the browser you are using to the private mode. Avoid using Google for search and use other search engines that respect user privacy; also, use ad-blockers to avoid tracking. Make a point of clearing your browsing history and cookies often so that there is a minimal chance of your activities being monitored and your information collected.
Unsecured Networks
While using Public Wi-Fi networks are appropriate for streaming movies on the go, they are very insecure. Insecure networks are easily accessible by hackers and hence they are able to spy on your activities and gain access to your identity. This risk is especially so if you are logging into a sensitive account or conducting any form of transactions online while connected to the public Wi-Fi.
To protect oneself on public Wi-Fi, one should not open any sensitive data or perform any financial operations. However, you can use a VPN to encrypt your connection so that hackers cannot easily snoop on your connection. Moreover, if you are sure that the environment is safe from hackers, it is advisable to use the mobile data connection as opposed to the public Wi-Fi.
In addition, make sure your home network is protected by setting a good and distinct password for your router and turn on WPA3 security. Always ensure that you upgrade your router’s firmware and if possible create a separate guest network for visitors to minimize on the security threats on your main network.
Fake Streaming Apps
The availability of mobile devices has made it possible for many streaming applications to be created, although most of them are fake. The fake streaming apps can bring malware into your device, or even steal your identity, or show pop-up advertisements. These apps tend to offer free downloads of paid materials to the users with the intention of tricking them.
To minimize on getting fake streaming apps, one should only download apps from the official play stores such as Google Play Store or Apple Store. While downloading an application, always look for the reviews by other users and the information about the developer. Beware of other apps which require permissions that are not likely to be of any use such as contacts or SMS messages.
Further, always update the operating system of your device and all the installed applications in order to have the latest security patches. It is recommended to use applications that are specifically designed for the security of mobile devices and can identify and prevent the launch of dangerous applications.
Copyright Infringement
Watching movies from the wrong sources not only endangers you but goes against the law on copyright. Piracy of the copyrighted material can cause legal ramifications such as fines and legal suits. Furthermore, by supporting these sites, people are also supporting other unlawful activities that are related to these sites.
To avoid copyright infringement, one should use services that have rights to stream the content to their clients. Platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ provide an opportunity to watch movies and TV shows with their help, thus not breaking the law. If you opt for legal services, you also contribute to the producers and sector that provides the materials you like.
In addition, most of the legal streaming platforms provide an option for a free trial or have some of the movies available for free with ads. Make use of these offers to meet the entertainment needs while at the same time avoiding any legal cases.
Conclusion
While using the internet to watch movies is comfortable and enjoyable, it may be insecure. Knowing the risks like malware, phishing scams, data privacy, unsecured networks, fake streaming apps, and copyright infringement, you will be able to protect yourself. It is safe to use reliable streaming services, update your software, and think about using VPN to improve your anonymity. By following these tips, one will be able to watch his or her favorite movies without any harm.
It is very important to be always on the lookout for your own security especially in the current world where everything is done online. This way, one can minimize the dangers of online streaming by using the proper equipment and following safety measures. You can watch your movies without having to put your security or even your privacy at risk.
