Is it Dangerous to Use Putlocker?

Putlocker is a well-known website that gives users access to a wide variety of TV shows and movies for free. However, this seems almost too good to be true and has therefore raised legality questions. 

If you’re wondering whether you should be using Putlocker, then we’re here to help. You should note that the original version of Putlocker was taken offline in 2016. However, many clones exist, and for simplicity, we will refer to them as being the same entity.

The Legality of Putlocker

Putlocker is honestly illegal in many jurisdictions. This website does not have the necessary rights to be able to provide access to the content that it does to users. However, in some countries the copyright laws are lax and there are no penalties for streaming content from websites like Putlocker. 

These countries include Poland, Spain, and Switzerland. However, in many other countries, pirating content is illegal and end-users are even actively persecuted in some cases. 

Risks of Using Putlocker

As we mentioned before, you run the risk of being prosecuted in countries such as Germany and the US. In addition, you may be accessing a version of Putlocker which spreads viruses and malware. In general, using Putlocker isn’t advised, even if it isn’t illegal in your country.

How to Use Putlocker Safely

If you live in a jurisdiction where the use of Putlocker isn’t illegal, and you must use it, then you should use it with a VPN. VPNs mask your streaming activity from prying eyes such as your internet service provider (ISP). 

This is especially important in the case of your ISP. ISPs have been known to throttle the streaming activities of users who stream a lot, even though they paid for their internet service. Whether you’re streaming with Putlocker or another site, you should have access to the bandwidth that you paid for. VPNs also provide protection against some types of viruses and cyber-attacks.

Alternatives to Putlocker

You should avoid using Putlocker wherever possible. Even if you’re in a jurisdiction where its use isn’t illegal, you should consider the ethical implications of streaming content that wasn’t paid for. 

You should support the hard work of the content creators who went out of their way to make the content that is streamed for free on Putlocker.

Thankfully, there are many services out there such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video that give users access to quality content at a low cost. 

If you are looking for free, quality content, then you should consider Sony’s Crackle or PopcornFlix. While you won’t find the latest content on these platforms, you’ll still be able to access great shows and movies, such as Anaconda 3: Offspring.

Wrapping Up

You should always be wary of streaming platforms that provide content that you think should cost money for free. In many cases, this is because these platforms don’t have the rights to stream the content that they are. 

These platforms should be avoided. They are only legal in very few countries and there are risks, such as prosecution, involved in streaming from these platforms. Consider using alternatives such as Amazon Prime Video or even a free alternative like Crackle. 

If you must use Putlocker, then be sure to use it with a VPN to ensure your safety while doing so.