123Movies has been one of the most popular free streaming websites for movies and TV shows. Unfortunately, a lot of users experience weird activities when they open the platform, such as automatic downloads popping up. If you’re suddenly being told that 123Movies downloaded something 3 times (without permission), you might be wondering what just happened, why it’s happening and how you can stop it from occurring ever again.
This guide will walk you through the reasons behind 123Movies potentially downloading files on your device without your consent, the risks it carries, and ways to keep your device safe from such incidents. Additionally, we will discuss alternative safe options to stream and common questions surrounding this topic.
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If you have seen 123Movies downloading a file without permission three times or more, this is why it can happen:
Malicious Ads and Pop-ups
Some unwanted downloads can be triggered by the third-party advertisements hosted by 123Movies. These downloads can include potentially harmful software, like:
Adware – Produces annoying pop-ups and reroutes.
Spyware – Gathers personal information without knowledge.
Malware or Viruses – Can infect your computer — and compromise its security.
Clickjacking and Auto-Download Scripts
Some websites are using clickjacking techniques where any click on the page (including the closing of a pop-up) will lead to a download. You can also have scripts auto-download multiple files as you navigate to the page.
Simulated Play and Download Buttons
Free-streaming sites show download or play buttons that when clicked download a number of files. But these files aren’t always trusted and could harbor malware.
Malware-Injected Redirects
If 123Movies keeps redirecting to other sites, those sites might try to download files in the background without your consent.
What Are the Dangers of Unwanted Downloads from 123Movies?
Annoying downloads can be a grave risk to your device and data security.Invalid downloads can do unlimited damage all around the Internet if your device is connected to the Internet. Some of the most common risks are:
Malware and Viruses
Files from untrusted sources that have been downloaded automatically might have viruses that may damage your system. These can:
Corrupt files or software.
You can slow down the performance of your device.
Steal personal information.
Phishing Attacks
Some downloaded files may pretend to be legitimate software but are really just trying to pillage your login credentials, banking information or personal details.
Ransomware
Some malicious files are capable of encrypting your data and asking you to pay to restore access. This classic type of attack is highly disruptive and can result in irreversible data loss.
Your Device Has Been Compromised
The malware downloaded by the hackers can allow the hackers to remotely control your device, install more dangerous software on your device, or monitor your online activity.
How to Stop 123Movies from Downloading Files Without Your Consent?
To safeguard your device from unwanted downloads and malware, here are the key security measures you need to take:
Use an Ad Blocker
Opt for a good quality ad blocker, such as:
UBlock Origin (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
AdGuard
AdBlock Plus
This will limit pop-ups and misleading ads that launch unwanted downloads.
Browser security settings must be enabled
Most modern browsers have built-in security settings that prevent this kind of automatic download:)
Google Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > Additional permissions > Automatic downloads, and block unknown source downloads.
Mozilla Firefox: Find Preferences > Privacy & Security > Permissions > Block dangerous downloads.
Scan the Downloaded Files
If your device had already downloaded a file without your permission, and you should not open it. Instead:
Scan it with Windows Defender, Malwarebytes or Norton Antivirus.
If it is suspicious,delete the File as soon as possible.
Browser Cache and Cookies Clearing
Clearing cache + cookies can get rid of harmful scripts stored in your browser:
In Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data
Firefox: Tools > Options > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data
Use a VPN for Added Security
Ma VPN (Virtual Private Network), mo IP adresa ne stoje za vas, to se smanjuje rizik od zloćudnih i phishing napada.
Don’t Click Links You Don’t Recognize
“Don’t click random buttons or ads claiming to start a download.” It is always a good practice to verify the source rather than just proceeding.
List of Legal and Safe 123Movies Alternatives
All in all, it is advisable to use legal and safe streaming services and avoid 123Movies. Some of the best substitutes are:
Free Legal Streaming Sites:
Tubi TV (https://www.tubitv.com/)
Crackle (https://www.crackle.com)
Pluto TV (https://www.pluto.tv/)
Peacock Free (https://www.peacocktv.com/)
Cable/Traditional Network Model:
Netflix (https://www.netflix.com)
Hulu (https://www.hulu.com/)
Amazon Prime Video (https://www.amazon.com/Prime-Video)
Disney+ (www.disneyplus.com)
FAQs
When was the last time you were trained on data?
First, run the file through antivirus software. If it looks suspicious, don’t open it — delete it.
Is there a virus on my device from 123Movies?
The answer is yes: 123Movies is unregulated, and therefore can leave users susceptible to malware and bad files.
Is using 123Movies illegal?
This act, streaming copyrighted content without permission from unauthorized websites, is illegal in many countries.
Best Legal Alternatives to 123Movies
Great legal alternatives are Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Tubi TV.
Summary
If 123Movies had downloaded a file 3 times without permission, it was likely due to a malicious advertisement or auto-download script, or even clickjacking. These unwanted downloads are malicious and might be a virus, spyware, or even ransomware.
Be sure to take precautions to protect your device: use ad blockers, enable your security settings in your browsers, scan files with antivirus software, and buy into the legal part of streaming.
Conclusion
123Movies is still a popular service but it carries the risk of zodiacal security. Downloading sources you don’t want may expose your computer and personal data to hackers. Do be sure of your safety by abide by the best practices of the online security and stream from the verified streaming platforms.
Following such measures, you can stream safely and freely all you want without risking your data and privacy.
