GoMovies: Is It Up, Safe, and Legal in 2024? Best Alternatives?

GoMovies holds a special place in the hearts of many who like to stream and download their favorite TV shows and movies for free. As a faithful user, you will know these platforms: GoStream, GoMovies (original), GoMovieshub, and MeMovies. However, this site was taken down in March 2018. While you can still access GoMovies through its copy websites or “mirrors,” it remains a question whether these sites are safe for streaming.

These mirrors are still illegally uploading and hosting copyrighted content like the original websites. Because of this, law enforcement agencies are even keener on fishing out more sites like them.

Nonetheless, some workarounds still allow you to stream on a movie website for free. This article discusses surefire ways to stay safe from prying eyes, legal GoMovies alternatives, and how to juggle all of them.

Is using GoMovies legal?

The consensus over the legality of using GoMovies varies from place to place. Depending on the location, the laws on piracy differ and can range from no charge to a warning to a fine in some cases.

Furthermore, it is essential to research your location and the accompanying laws on piracy. This way, you do not infringe on any piracy laws.

Below are some of the significant places and just how they view piracy and the rules regarding the act:

It is necessary to note that there is a distinction between downloading copyrighted content and streaming it. The former entails storing the file on your local device and can stand as evidence to charge you with, but the latter leaves behind caches, and you do not retain ownership of the file or its content.

Legal pitfalls of using GoMovies

Streaming illegal content carries different consequences depending on the jurisdiction in which the user is streaming. Take, for example, countries like Germany, where hefty fines are imposed, but imprisonment is not an expected outcome. However, the consequences may differ in other regions where fines or penalties are not enforced.

It’s worth noting that a warning system may be in place in some locations per local laws. 

Additionally, it is essential to consider that in certain jurisdictions, only the distributor of copyrighted content is held liable in case of legal prosecution. Interestingly, even in countries where copyrighted content may not be downloaded, the residual cache files from streaming can be utilized to track and potentially prosecute individuals.

Is GoMovies safe to use?

After knowing that GoMovies looks safe to use, concerning the legality, you now must understand safety in another context. This context refers to the risks of using GoMovies as regards malware.

But to honestly answer whether GoMovies is safe to use, we must specify what that means. GoMovies is no longer active, but some mirrors have sprung up to replace it in its absence.

The issue, then, is, are these mirrors safe to use? And the answer is that the risk of using mirrors without protection is inadvisable. Ill-meaning admins run most mirrors and might pose a severe user risk.

Watch out for mirror sites

Accessing content on GoMovies is exclusively possible through website duplicates, known as “mirrors” or copycat sites. These sites are hosted and controlled by third parties who may or may not have been affiliated with the original GoMovies website.

Due to the transient nature of these mirror sites, accountability becomes uncertain. It becomes challenging to rely on GoMovies reviews to determine their safety. Mirror site owners can potentially inject malicious code or track user data. Moreover, these platforms often display intrusive ads and pop-ups.

Consequently, the unfortunate reality is that the safety of mirror sites varies. Therefore, we strongly advise employing a VPN service and antivirus software to ensure your security. Without these precautions, we do not recommend using GoMovies.

How to safely watch GoMovies

We do not categorically support using GoMovies since it is illegal in many countries. However, there are locations where GoMovies are legal for use, but even in these locations, you still need to stay protected.

Below are the two chief methods you can use to access GoMovies safely:

Use an antivirus

While VPNs can offer some protection against unauthorized access to online activities, they are flexible regarding security. One significant risk that arises when using the internet is the presence of harmful software like malware. For example, GoMovies, a platform that hosts numerous ads, pop-ups, and redirects, can expose users to malicious software.

To enhance privacy and security while using GoMovies, we recommend combining a VPN with a reputable antivirus program. In our tests to identify the best antivirus software for GoMovies, we found that Norton360 was the most effective option.

With its advanced security features, Norton360 provides high protection for users who access GoMovies. Additionally, by utilizing both a VPN and Norton360, users can substantially mitigate the risks associated with GoMovies and similar streaming platforms.

Use a VPN

Premium VPN software provides internet users with a secure and private browsing experience. These trusted services protect your online and streaming activities from your local internet service provider (ISP) and malicious third parties, including law enforcement agencies.

Moreover, premium VPN services often offer the option to extend protection to others, such as family and friends, using the same paid subscription. This guide will delve into the details of reliable premium VPN services specifically designed for streaming, including ExpressVPN, PrivateVPN, and NordVPN.

Can a VPN really help me safely use GoMovies?

VPNs are the best recommended option for safely using GoMovies. With a VPN, you can switch your IP address, keep your main IP hidden, and protect yourself from intrusive ads. A VPN also helps you access geo-restricted content not commonly available in your location. It does this using an alternative IP address that bypasses any firewalls meant to keep you out.

All your internet traffic is encrypted and safe, so you need not worry less about the prying eyes of your ISP or third parties. There is also the issue of data throttling, which happens when your ISP reduces your connection speeds so you don’t use too much data. A VPN will bypass this throttling, letting you enjoy the fullness of your connection.

There is also the case of ad-blocking; VPNs can help make your internet experience much more convenient and hitch-free. Lastly, it’s important to mention that VPNs work great with an antivirus; ensure that the antivirus does not clash with the VPN. You can toggle this in the settings.

Best GoMovies VPNs for safe streaming

1. ExpressVPN

An undefeatable VPN service with a bundle of features that make it a safe choice to consider while using illegal sites like GoMovies.

Visit ExpressVPN

A network of over 3,000 servers present in 90 different countries worldwide

TrustedServer technology (for enhanced security)

Protects connection with reliable AES-256 data encryption

Does not keep log of user traffic usage

A split tunneling feature with high efficiency

Has Network Lock (kill switch) feature

Supports Tor over VPN on all servers

Peer to peer enabled servers

Each account can connect up to five devices at once

30-day tested pay-back policy

Pros

• Has streaming-friendly servers 
• Allows torrenting on most servers with Peer-to-Peer support
• Users’ data is kept extremely safe with strict no-log policy

Cons

• You can only choose a location, not a specific server

If you are a GoMovies fan seeking a reliable VPN for your streaming needs, ExpressVPN is an exceptional choice. It offers a range of features that set it apart from the competition.

ExpressVPN boasts an extensive server network spanning over 90 countries, providing GoMovies users with ample connection options to unblock the platform effortlessly.

The user-friendly and responsive ExpressVPN app allows fast connection to preferred VPN servers within seconds. Additionally, it offers convenient built-in shortcuts for easy access to favorite websites and apps with just a single click. Furthermore, the VPN supports all major platforms and dedicated routers, eliminating the need for manual configurations.

With ExpressVPN’s accurate speed test tool, finding the optimal server for your location is a breeze, ensuring fast streaming speeds. For example, our tests revealed that ExpressVPN loaded GoMovies videos in less than five seconds without any buffering issues, even during video skipping. In addition, the split-tunneling feature further enhances the streaming experience by boosting speeds.

Beyond GoMovies, ExpressVPN can unlock access to over 60 other streaming sites. It boasts top-notch security features, including RAM-only servers and perfect forward secrecy, guaranteeing excellent protection against potential threats.

Moreover, its “Threat Manager” feature blocks malicious connections and trackers, ensuring privacy and security while using the VPN. In addition, ExpressVPN’s strict zero-logs policy and military-grade encryption establish it as a top performer in privacy and security.

2. NordVPN

A rich-featured VPN network that boasts unbreakable encryption and stealth security features to keep you safe even while accessing illicit websites. It has a large number of servers and noticeable features.

Visit NordVPN

Contains over 5,500 efficient VPN servers scattered in over 60 countries

Reliable threat protection (malware, tracking, and ad blocker)

Industry standard, most secure encryption available: AES-256

A user-friendly kill switch feature

Split tunneling feature with high efficiency

Offers multi-hop VPN for double encryption

Provides seamless Onion over VPN functionality

Ensures that no logging is done

Users can connect up to six devices simultaneously with each account

A 30-day money-back guarantee with no questions asked

Pros

• Reliable protection against malware and adware
• Fluently unblocks almost all major streaming platform
• Offers special discouts to students

Cons

• Lacks free version

NordVPN takes pride in its vast server network, which spans over 50+ countries and comprises over 5,500 servers. This extensive server network ensures that users can easily find a nearby server for optimal streaming speeds. Even if GoMovies is blocked in your region, NordVPN simplifies connecting to a location where the streaming service is accessible.

Regardless of server distance or location, NordVPN consistently maintains impressive speed, delivering HD-quality content without noticeable drops in streaming quality.

NordVPN boasts advanced features and privacy protocols like perfect forward secrecy and Threat Protection, safeguarding your private information from malicious entities. Also, it has set up a RAM-only server network to ensure no user data is stored. Besides, its vigilant ad-blocking feature keeps your streaming experience ad-free.

Moreover, NordVPN is a top choice for unblocking GoMovies and other popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max, and Crunchyroll.

3. Surfshark

A cost-efficient VPN provider with the same features as other high-cost VPNs. It ensures you remain as anonymous as possible while streaming GoMovies.

Visit Surfshark

More than 3,200 efficient VPN servers in 90+ different countries

Runs on RAM-based servers (best for privacy)

Does not contain users’ logs

Robust data AES-256 (industry-grade) encryption

Supports Peer to Peer traffic on most servers

Security-enhancing smart kill switch feature

Functional CleanWeb ad and malware blocking feature

Split tunneling with dependable effectiveness

No limit to the number of connections per account

30 days of no-questions-asked refunds

Pros

• Impressive speeds and strong security features
• Extremely budget-friendly
• No users’ traffic is stored

Cons

• Based in the Netherlands (a member of the global data-sharing 14-Eyes alliance)

Surfshark stands out from other VPNs with its unlimited simultaneous connections, making it ideal for users with multiple devices. In addition, its extensive server network includes 3,200+ servers in 90+ countries, ensuring easy access to server locations that can unblock GoMovies.

During our tests, Surfshark consistently delivered fast speeds, whether connecting to distant or nearby servers. We experienced no freezes or buffering issues when skipping through videos on GoMovies. In addition, Surfshark unblocked popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Crunchyroll, HBO Max, and Peacock.

Surfshark prioritizes advanced security features, such as RAM-only servers and perfect forward secrecy. The paid security add-on, Surfshark Alert, protects email accounts and credit cards and checks password vulnerability. In addition, the Surfshark Antivirus add-on safeguards devices against malware.

For Android apps, Surfshark offers Spoof GPS, concealing GPS data and IP address, enabling mobile streaming apps that rely on GPS data without revealing your location.

The CleanWeb feature, available on all apps, blocks malicious ads and connections from GoMovies, resulting in faster site loading and a smoother streaming experience.

In addition, Surfshark provides 24/7 live chat support, affordable plans, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

How to access GoMovies

Here’s a short guide to using GoMovies in locations where it is legal to stream using GoMovies:

1. Use a VPN in combination with a robust antivirus. We recommend Norton360
2. Search for suitable GoMovies mirrors. To do this, search “GoMovies Mirror” and use the safest search results.

Are there any legal and safe GoMovies alternatives?

The streaming service market offers numerous choices, some considered illegal in certain countries. We highly recommend subscribing to legal streaming platforms to ensure a safer option.

Although these platforms typically require a subscription fee, the cost is usually reasonable and provides peace of mind.

Legal streaming platforms offer an extensive collection of media that has been legally sourced and licensed for hosting. Using these platforms eliminates the risk of engaging in illegal activities, allowing you to avoid excessive safety precautions.

While it is important to note that they may only sometimes be as up-to-date as GoMovies, these platforms still provide access to the latest, high-quality, popular video content.

Major legal alternatives to GoMovies

Unofficial alternatives to GoMovies

1. YesMovies

• Website URL: yesmovies.at

YesMovies is distinctly different from GoMovies despite their visual resemblance to online streaming platforms. YesMovies focuses on movies and TV shows, offering a highly inclusive content filter that enables sorting by type, quality, genre, country, and release year.

While most movies on YesMovies were released after 2014, the site also offers a considerable selection of older films for those seeking them.

2. FMovies

• Website URL: fmovies.fo

FMovies has excellent quality content, and the site is similar to GoMovies in many ways. However, most of the movies it links to are hosted on different third-party hosting providers, so even if one site is down, the other is generally up.

FMovies’ homepage has sections for suggestions, new movies, new TV shows, and desired movies. You may also discover which films and TV shows were popular in the previous day, week, and month. To avoid annoyance while watching FMovies, we recommend using an ad-blocker.

3. AZMovies

• Website URL: azm.to

AZMovies, as the name implies, has movies from A to Z. Most movies on AZMovies are in Full HD, and each film is hosted on at least two servers to ensure its availability. Most movies include closed captions, so you should be fine keeping along even if English isn’t your first language.

Also, when new movies are published to AZMovies, they are often promoted on Reddit, making it easy for Redditors to keep up with all new releases.

4. 123Movies

• Website URL: 0123movie.net

For many years, 123Movies has been providing new movies to people worldwide. The site was recently re-structured, and the new 123Movies edition is cleaner, easier to use, and faster than the previous one.

Aside from movies and TV shows, 123Movies is a great place to watch anime and Asian dramas. Movies are posted to 123Movies as soon as they are released in theatres, and each film often has many mirrors.

5. Yify Movies

• Website URL: yifymovies.xyz

Yify Movies is a diverse online streaming platform that features movies sourced from various origins and available in different quality levels. Full HD movies, cam, and TS rips are on this widely-used movie torrent website. Whether to watch a film of lower quality or wait for a higher-quality release is left to your discretion.

6. Putlocker

• Website URL: putlocker.vc

Putlocker has established itself as one of the longest-running online streaming platforms, surpassing many others like GoMovies. Its reputation is built on delivering high-quality movie releases with exceptional speed, accompanied by multiple mirrors for each film on the site.

Given Putlocker’s extensive online presence, numerous imitators have emerged in an attempt to capitalize on its large user base. Therefore, exercising caution and exclusively relying on the genuine Putlocker website is crucial. Unless you are confident in your anti-malware software’s capabilities, avoiding imitations entirely to safeguard your online experience is advisable.

7. Movie4K

• Website URL: movie4k.fr/

Movie4k is a prominent and user-friendly platform for free movie streaming. It offers a wide selection of movies across different genres and ensures a seamless viewing experience with high streaming speeds.

To explore new content, Movie4k offers convenient sorting options such as arranging movies by quality, release year, or genre. Alternatively, you can let Movie4k surprise you by selecting a random film. Once you’ve found a movie of interest, click the play button and enjoy the streaming experience as the content begins to play.

Conclusion

Even though we have reviewed GoMovies and other free-to-use websites like itself, we must add that we do not recommend using them for the sake of the legality and overall safety concerns that come with their usage.

Combining an antivirus and a VPN is essential if you want to use it regardless. Without these two, however, we advise that you avoid them altogether.

Some safe, legal, and affordable alternatives include USB sticks such as Roku or Firestick and Kodi.

We can also recommend some premium options, such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, which offer users fantastic quality. These options are sure to give you more value for money.

FAQs