123Movies? 123 Movies Best Alternative | Legel & [Safe Way]

I always wanted to watch live streams for free, 123Movies was a website where you can enjoy your free time. But for some reason which I will explain below, forced it to shut down. In this guide, I will share a list of websites and apps with my readers.

So let’s get started without wasting any time now. First I will explain what it was and how it was shut down.

What is 123Movies?

This emerged as a prominent name in the world of online movie streaming, offering a seemingly endless library of movies and TV shows readily available at no cost. Its user-friendly interface and vast content selection attracted millions of users worldwide, particularly those seeking alternatives to traditional cable subscriptions or expensive streaming services.

However, it operated in a legal gray area. The platform did not possess the necessary licenses to distribute the content it offered, making it a prime example of copyright infringement. This legality issue ultimately led to its downfall in 2018, when authorities took down the website and its various domain names.

Despite its closure, the allure of free entertainment continues to spawn similar websites and mirror sites that attempt to replicate the same experience. However, it’s crucial to understand the significant risks associated with these platforms.

They often operate illegally, exposing users to potential malware infections, data breaches, and even legal consequences. Additionally, the content quality on these sites can be unreliable, riddled with buffering issues, and lacking in the features and functionalities offered by legitimate streaming services.

Is 123movies Live or Been Shut Down

The once popular platform offering free access to movies and TV shows is no longer operational. It was officially shut down in March 2018 due to copyright infringement concerns.

While the original website and its various domain names are no longer accessible, mirror sites and similar platforms might still appear online. However, it’s crucial to understand that these alternatives operate illegally and pose significant risks, including malware, security breaches, and potential legal repercussions.

Therefore, while there might be websites resembling the same, it’s important to remember that the original platform is definitively down. Choosing legitimate streaming services with proper licensing agreements ensures a safe, legal, and enjoyable entertainment experience.

Best 123Movies Alternative Websites

So, let’s get started with a few popular websites and apps where you can watch movies, some of these websites are paid and some of them are free for all users.

Crackle – Free Movies and TV Shows

Crackle is a free streaming platform owned by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment. It offers a variety of movies, TV shows, and original content, supported by ads. Viewers can access Crackle through its website or mobile app, as well as on various streaming devices such as Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.

Crackle’s library includes a mix of popular titles and original programming, making it a convenient option for users looking for free streaming options. However, availability may vary depending on region, and the platform is ad-supported, meaning viewers will encounter commercials during playback. Overall, Crackle provides a diverse selection of content for users who prefer free streaming services.

Popcornflix

Popcornflix is a free streaming platform that offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows to viewers. Launched in 2011, Popcornflix provides ad-supported content, allowing users to watch movies and TV shows for free with occasional commercial interruptions.

The platform features a diverse library of titles across various genres, including drama, comedy, horror, action, and more. Popcornflix is accessible through its website and mobile apps, making it convenient for users to stream content on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

Overall, Popcornflix provides an accessible and cost-effective way for viewers to enjoy a range of entertainment options without the need for a subscription.

Movies & TV on YouTube

Movies & TV on YouTube refers to the availability of movies and television shows for purchase or rental on the YouTube platform. Users can access a wide range of titles, including new releases and classics, and choose to either buy or rent them for streaming.

This service provides convenience and flexibility for viewers who prefer digital content consumption and allows them to watch their favorite movies and TV shows on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Additionally, YouTube often offers special deals and promotions, making it a convenient option for accessing entertainment content.

The Roku Channel

The Roku Channel is a streaming platform owned by Roku, Inc. It offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and live TV channels for free, supported by ads. Users can access The Roku Channel on Roku streaming devices, Roku TVs, and through the Roku mobile app.

The platform features a diverse library of content from various sources, including major Hollywood studios, allowing viewers to enjoy a mix of popular titles and classic favorites. Additionally, The Roku Channel offers personalized recommendations and curated collections to help users discover new content.

Overall, The Roku Channel provides a convenient and cost-effective way for users to access entertainment content without the need for a subscription.

Netflix

Netflix is a popular subscription-based streaming service that offers a vast library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and original content for viewers to stream on demand. With a monthly subscription fee, users gain access to a wide range of entertainment options across various genres and languages.

Netflix is known for its user-friendly interface, personalized recommendations, and high-quality streaming experience.

However, it also faces challenges such as content rotation, where titles are periodically removed from the platform, and regional restrictions that limit access to certain content based on geographic location. Overall, Netflix remains one of the leading streaming platforms globally, catering to diverse tastes and preferences with its extensive library and original productions.

Hulu

Hulu is a subscription-based streaming service that offers a diverse selection of movies, TV shows, original series, and live TV channels for viewers to stream on demand. With various subscription tiers available, users can access a wide range of content, including current-season TV episodes, classic favorites, and Hulu Originals.

Hulu also offers add-ons for premium channels and live TV streaming, allowing users to customize their viewing experience. The platform is known for its extensive library of content, including exclusive licensing deals with major networks and studios.

However, Hulu’s subscription plans come with ads, which can interrupt the viewing experience for some users. Overall, Hulu provides a convenient and flexible streaming solution for users looking to access a mix of on-demand and live content.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime Video is a subscription-based streaming service offered by Amazon, providing users with access to a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. With an Amazon Prime membership, users gain access to Prime Video as well as other benefits such as free shipping, music streaming, and e-book borrowing.

It offers a diverse library of content, including licensed movies and TV shows from various studios, as well as critically acclaimed original series like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “The Boys.” Additionally, Prime Video allows users to rent or purchase digital movies and TV shows that are not included with their subscription.

One of the main advantages of Amazon Prime Video is its integration with other Amazon services, providing a seamless user experience across devices and platforms. However, like other streaming services, Amazon Prime Video requires a subscription fee, and some content may be subject to regional restrictions or additional costs.

Overall, Amazon Prime Video offers a comprehensive streaming experience with a wide selection of content and added benefits for Prime members.

Is 123movies a Safe Website?

This is not considered safe. It is a website that offers free streaming of movies and TV shows, but it operates illegally by hosting copyrighted content without proper authorization. Accessing content on a website like that may expose users to malware, viruses, and other security risks.

Additionally, using unauthorized streaming services like the same may also result in legal consequences due to copyright infringement. It is recommended to use legitimate streaming services that adhere to copyright laws and prioritize user safety and security.

Is it legal to use 123movies

It is not legal to use it. 123 Movies is a website that offers free streaming of movies and TV shows, but it operates illegally by hosting copyrighted content without proper authorization.

Accessing or streaming copyrighted content on 123 Movies without permission from the copyright holders constitutes copyright infringement, which is illegal in many jurisdictions.

Using unauthorized streaming services like 123 Movies may result in legal consequences, including fines and penalties. It is recommended to use legitimate streaming services that adhere to copyright laws and respect intellectual property rights.

How to Unblock Its Alternatives?

Unblocking alternatives to 123 Movies typically involves using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to bypass geo-restrictions and access the websites from locations where they are not blocked.

Here’s how you can unblock its alternatives using a VPN:

1. Choose a reputable VPN service: Select a VPN provider that offers reliable and secure connections with servers in various locations around the world.
2. Install the VPN software: Download and install the VPN client on your device(s). Most VPN providers offer applications for desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
3. Connect to a server: Open the VPN application and connect to a server located in a country where access to its alternatives is not restricted. This will change your IP address and make it appear as though you are browsing from that country.
4. Access the website: Once connected to the VPN server, visit the website of the alternative you want to unblock. You should now be able to access the site without any restrictions.
5. Enjoy streaming: Once you have successfully unblocked the website, you can browse its content and stream movies and TV shows as desired. Remember to keep the VPN connection active while accessing the site to maintain privacy and security.

It’s important to note that while using a VPN can help you bypass geo-restrictions and access blocked websites, it may still be against the terms of service or illegal to access copyrighted content without proper authorization.

Be sure to use VPN services and streaming websites responsibly and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

FAQs

Is it Safe?

Using websites similar to 123 Movies may not be safe due to potential security risks, including exposure to malware, viruses, and legal consequences for accessing copyrighted content illegally.

Is it Legal?

No, accessing websites similar to 123 Movies is not legal in many jurisdictions as they often host copyrighted content without proper authorization.

Is it Still Live?

123 Movies, as well as similar websites, may still be accessible through various domain names or mirrors, but the legality and safety of using them remain questionable.

Do similar websites are available?

Yes, there are similar websites to 123 Movies, but their legality and safety are often questionable.

What are the main alternatives?

The main alternatives to 123 Movies include YouTube, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Netflix.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 123Movies may have offered a tempting proposition for free movie streaming, its illegal nature and associated risks far outweigh any perceived benefits.

Choosing legitimate streaming services, even with their associated costs, ensures a safe, legal, and high-quality entertainment experience.

Remember, protecting your online safety and respecting copyright laws are paramount when navigating the world of online content streaming.