Is 123Movies Safe? Best Alternatives in 2025

123Movies Download is Not Safe? Record to Avoid Virus/Malware

There is an option to download movies from 123Movies for offline playback. However, this is not safe and not legal. Downloading content from 123Movies brings significant risks, including virus, malware, and legal consequences.

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How to Watch 123Movies Safely?

While 123Movies is not safe, there are steps you can take to minimize risks and stream on 123Movies more safely.

Also see: Top 10 AniWatch Alternatives

1. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A VPN hides your IP address and encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for ISPs, hackers, or authorities to track your activity. It can protect your privacy and reduces the risk of legal issues when using 123Movies.

1. Choose a reputable VPN provider (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark).
2. Install the VPN app on your device.
3. Connect to a server in a location where 123Movies streaming is less likely to be monitored. Then you can stream 123Movies safely.

2. Install Antivirus Software

Free streaming sites like 123Movies are often riddled with malware and phishing attempts. Make sure you have antivirus software installed and enabled. It can prevent 123Movies virus and protect your device.

1. Install reliable antivirus software (e.g., Norton, McAfee, or Bitdefender).
2. Keep the software updated to detect and block the latest threats. Then you should be able to watch 123Movies without getting virus.

3. Use an Ad Blocker

123Movies is notorious for intrusive ads, pop-ups, and redirects that can lead to malicious sites. Blocks annoying and potentially harmful ads on 123Movies.

1. Install an ad blocker like uBlock Origin or AdGuard on your browser.
2. Enable the ad blocker before visiting the site.

4. Avoid Downloading Anything

Many free streaming sites trick users into downloading fake files that contain malware. Don’t download anything from 123Movies to stay safe from the risk of downloading malicious files.

1. Stick to streaming and avoid clicking on any download buttons or links.
2. Be cautious of pop-ups on 123Movies claiming you need to download a plugin or software to watch the video.

Safe and Legal Alternatives to 123Movies in 2025

If you're concerned about the risks of using 123Movies—such as malware, viruses, and legal issues—you’re not alone. Many users are looking for safer and legal alternatives to stream movies and TV shows. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best safe and legal alternatives to 123Movies, complete with detailed reviews, pros, cons, and unique features to help you make an informed choice.

Netflix

If you’re looking for a safe alternative to 123Movies, Netflix is one of the most popular and reliable options available. Unlike 123Movies, which is not safe, not legal, and often riddled with viruses and malware, Netflix offers a secure, high-quality streaming experience with a vast library of content. It’s one of the best safe 123Movies alternative if you want original content. You can stream on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles in over 190 countries.

Pros:

• Thousands of titles across various genres and constantly updated with new releases and classic favorites.
• Netflix supports streaming in 4K Ultra HD and HDR for compatible devices.
• Netflix is known for its award-winning original series and movies.
• The 123Movies alternative is safe and free from ads and virus, providing an uninterrupted viewing experience

Cons:

• Netflix requires a monthly subscription.
• Titles are periodically removed from Netflix due to licensing agreements.
• The content library varies by country so some shows or movies may not be available in your region.
• Streaming on Netflix requires a stable internet connection.

Tubi

Tubi is one of the leading free streaming services available in 2025, providing users with access to thousands of movies and TV shows across a wide range of genres, partnering with major Hollywood studios such as Paramount Pictures, Lionsgate, MGM, and others. Users don’t need a subscription, making it an excellent choice for those who might want a safer alternative sites to 123Movies that work in 2025.

Pros:

• This 123Movies alternative is 100% free to use, with no subscription fees or hidden costs.
• Tubi offers thousands of movies and TV shows, including both popular titles and niche content.
• Unlike 123Movies, Tubi is a fully safe and licensed platform that respects copyright laws.
• In addition to on-demand content, Tubi offers a selection of live TV channels.

Cons:

• Tubi includes ads, which can be intrusive and interrupt the viewing experience.
• Tubi’s library focuses more on older and classic titles, with fewer new releases compared to 123Movies.
• Tubi does not offer the option to download content for offline viewing.

Crackle

As 123Movies is not safe and you still want a free option, Crackle is a good choice. Crackle is a free streaming service owned by Sony, offering a diverse library of movies and TV shows across various genres. While Crackle operates on an ad-supported model, it remains entirely free to use. Crackle provides high-quality content legally, making it one of the top choices for streaming enthusiasts who prefer to avoid the risks associated with pirated sites like 123Movies.

Pros:

• While 123Movies offers similar free access with the risks of being illegal and unsafe, Crackle is completely free to use.
• Crackle has made significant strides in producing original series and movies that can only be watched on the platform.
• Leverages Sony's extensive library, offering access to a selection of Sony Pictures movies and TV shows.

Cons:

• Like 123Movies, there are frequent ad interruptions during your viewing.
• The library is smaller than that of paid streaming services like Netflix or Hulu and its catalog is updated less frequently.
• Crackle’s content availability varies depending on the region and users in some regions may find that the library is limited or geo-blocked.
• Crackle does not allow users to download content for offline viewing.

Popcornflix

Popcornflix is one of the best 123movies alternative offering a large library of movies and TV shows for free. It’s especially known for its large collection of B-movies and cult classics, providing a unique selection that many other free platforms do not offer. These are also exclusive shows and movies produced specifically for the platform. While it may not have the latest blockbuster hits or premium content like subscription-based services, it’s a great option for users who want to enjoy free content without the risks of illegal streaming platforms such as 123Movies.

Pros:

• Large content library with both popular titles and niche content.
• It features a diverse selection of movies and TV shows across various genres.
• It's totally free and safe 123movies alternative, without having to create an account.
• There is a fairly good library of older movies.

Cons:

• There are a lot of ads on the site and some commercials are too long.
• It may not be the best 123movies alternative if you are looking for the latest blockbusters or current TV series.

Fmovies

FMovies is a popular streaming website that has attracted attention as a place to watch movies and TV shows for free. Similar to 123Movies, FMovies operates by allowing users to stream content without paying subscription fees.

However, just like 123Movies, FMovies has been surrounded by controversy due to its often illicit nature and the risks associated with illegal streaming. While some users may see FMovies as an alternative to 123Movies, it’s important to understand the safety, legal implications, and features of such platforms before engaging with them. As 123Movies is not safe and not legal, FMovies has similarly faced legal action in various countries for hosting pirated content.

Pros:

• Free access to a wide selection of movies and TV shows, including newly released films, popular series, old classics, etc.
• The platform generally offers high-quality streams in 720p, 1080p, and even 4K in some cases.
• Users can watch movies on the site without using an account, just like 123movies.

Cons:

• This 123Movies alternative is not safe or legal either.
• FMovies is notorious for displaying intrusive pop-up ads and redirects to third-party sites.
• FMovies has faced numerous domain shutdowns and legal action, leading to frequent changes in website URLs.
• Some streams may be in poor quality or may not work at all due to broken links.

Pluto TV

As 123Movies is not safe and you still want a free option, Crackle is a good choice. Crackle is a free streaming service owned by Sony, offering a diverse library of movies and TV shows across various genres. While Crackle operates on an ad-supported model, it remains entirely free to use. Crackle provides high-quality content legally, making it one of the top choices for streaming enthusiasts who prefer to avoid the risks associated with pirated sites like 123Movies.

Pros:

• While 123Movies offers similar free access with the risks of being illegal and unsafe, Crackle is completely free to use.
• Crackle has made significant strides in producing original series and movies that can only be watched on the platform.
• Leverages Sony's extensive library, offering access to a selection of Sony Pictures movies and TV shows.

Cons:

• Like 123Movies, there are frequent ad interruptions during your viewing.
• The library is smaller than that of paid streaming services like Netflix or Hulu and its catalog is updated less frequently.
• Crackle’s content availability varies depending on the region and users in some regions may find that the library is limited or geo-blocked.
• Crackle does not allow users to download content for offline viewing.

GoMovies

GoMovies allows users to stream a wide range of movies and TV shows for free. While this sounds appealing, GoMovies often sources its content from unauthorized and pirated sources, meaning that it does not have the necessary licensing to legally stream the content. Smiliar to 123Movies, GoMovies is often linked to illegal streaming activities, and there are significant concerns regarding malware, viruses, and potential legal consequences for users. You may use it when 123Movies sites are not working.

Pros:

• GoMovies offers a large selection of movies and TV shows for free.
• It offers multiple sources for each film.
• It offers high-quality streaming, so you can watch movies and TV shows in HD. 
• Users can start streaming right away without having to register an account.

Cons:

• There are a lot of ads and pop-ups during playback.
• The domain of the site changes frequently in order to remain operational.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 123Movies is not safe or legal. It offers pirated content without the proper licenses, which exposes users to legal risks, malware, viruses, and other security threats. While it may seem like a convenient way to watch movies for free, the potential consequences far outweigh any temporary benefit.

If you're looking for a safer, legal, and enjoyable streaming experience, consider switching to trusted alternatives in 2025. Platforms like Netflix, Crackle, Popcornflix, and many free, ad-supported options offer a vast library of content while ensuring your online security.

123Movies FAQ

1. Is 123Movies a safe website?

The short answer is no, 123Movies is not a safe website. 123Movies and its clones are notorious for hosting malware, viruses, and ransomware. Clicking on ads, pop-ups, or download links can infect your device with harmful software. The site is also filled with aggressive ads and pop-ups, many of which are malicious.

2. Should I use a VPN when using 123Movies?

Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) when accessing sites like 123Movies is highly recommended. A VPN helps to mask your real IP address, making it more difficult for third parties to track your online activities. VPNs encrypt your internet connection, which means that any information you send or receive is protected from hackers or malicious entities. However, using a VPN does not make copyright infringement legal.

3. Is there a better site than 123Movies?

Yes, there are several better, safer, and legal alternatives to 123Movies that offer a great streaming experience without the risks of piracy, malware, and legal consequences. Sites like Netflix, Tubi, Crackle, Popcornflix, Pluto TV, etc. are good options to try.

4. Why did 123Movies get shut down?

123Movies was shut down primarily due to its illegal activities, which included hosting pirated movies and TV shows without permission from content creators or distributors. This violated copyright laws in many countries. This led to several legal actions and crackdowns from copyright holders, government agencies, and internet service providers (ISPs) across various countries.