Lured by the temptation of watching a popular show or movie without having to pay subscription rates for umpteen streaming platforms, the best of us give in to streaming shows and movies illegally on the net, from illegal streaming websites. But not all leave us with the joy of watching popular content. Some also leave us with dangerous malware installed in our devices.
The malware is in the form of bugs and viruses that infect our devices and hack into sensitive information stored on the device, including bank account details, e-commerce passwords, our entire contacts list, and much more. Not only that, they may also infect the wi-fi system of the household, and through that, find a way into all devices in the house that connect to the infected wi-fi system.
In a recent research conducted by the cyber security firm McAfee, it has been concluded that certain movies and series available for free streaming pose an increased risk for malware attacks. Hackers target these movies and shows because of their popularity with streamers looking for free content.
The top ten series that pose the highest risk are Delhi Crime right at the top, followed by Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Panchayat, Akoori, Fauda, Ghoul, Mindhunter, Narcos, Devlok and Lost. These are prime targets for hackers when searched online.
The top ten movies that pose the most web risk are Mardaani 2, Zootopia, Jawaani Jaaneman, Chapaak, Love Aaj Kal, Inception, Bahubali, Rajnigandha, Gully Boy and Bala. Searching for these movies to watch free could land your device, and you, in trouble!
Remember that even if a person does not stream a movie/show, even clicking on a link exposes one to malicious software. Once the malicious software has entered the device, it can be used to bombard the user with unwanted advertisements, steal his personal information and files from the infected device, and, in worst case scenarios, take over the device completely.
Considering that cybercrime is at an all-time high in recent times, it is better and worthwhile to stream your content from their original platforms, and not from illegal streaming sites. It is simply not worth the risk!