Is Popcorn Time Safe Without a VPN & Legal to Use in 2025

Popcorn Time gained popularity for its easy-to-use interface and vast content library, but the way it provides content raises security and legal concerns. Unlike traditional streaming services, it relies on torrent-based technology, which comes with unique risks that many users overlook.

How safe is Popcorn Time? While the app itself is legal, using it to stream copyrighted content without permission violates copyright laws in most countries. Additionally, because it relies on P2P technology, Popcorn Time exposes your IP address to other users, which can lead to privacy risks. A study found that free content websites are 19 times more likely to be malicious compared to premium sites¹.

The best way to protect yourself while using Popcorn Time is with a reliable VPN. It encrypts your traffic and hides your real IP address, preventing your ISP, hackers, and third parties from tracking your online activity.

After testing over 40 VPNs, ExpressVPN is my top recommendation for safe streaming. Its military-grade encryption, strict no-logs policy, and fast speeds provide the security and performance needed for smooth browsing, streaming, and torrenting. Better yet, first-time users can try ExpressVPN risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee. Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Stream Safely With ExpressVPN >>

Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs for Secure Popcorn Time Streaming in 2025

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

Is Popcorn Time Safe and Legal, and Will a VPN Help?

Popcorn Time might look like a convenient way to stream movies and shows, but it comes with some major security and legal risks. Here’s what you need to know before using it:

Security Risks: Malware, Viruses, and Unwanted Downloads

One of the biggest dangers with Popcorn Time is the risk of downloading a fake or compromised version. Since the original project was shut down, many unofficial versions have popped up, and some contain dangerous malware.

• Fake versions. Many copycat sites distribute modified versions of Popcorn Time that contain malicious code designed to compromise your security. According to GuardWatch, some versions of Popcorn Time even contain ransomware².
• Infected files. Even if you’re using a clean version, Popcorn Time relies on P2P (peer-to-peer) file sharing, which means you’re downloading chunks of content from other users. Some of these files may contain viruses or other security threats.
• Unwanted software. Some modified versions have been known to install additional software in the background without your permission.
• Drive-by downloads. Simply visiting an unofficial Popcorn Time site can trigger downloads of spyware or unwanted programs.
• DDoS attacks. Because P2P sharing exposes your IP address, malicious users could launch DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) attacks against you. This can flood your network with traffic, causing slowdowns or even disconnections.

Legal Risks: Copyright Infringement and ISP Monitoring

The legal concerns around Popcorn Time are serious because the app offers copyrighted content.

• Copyright infringement. Since Popcorn Time works through P2P sharing, you’re potentially not just streaming copyrighted files — you’re helping distribute it.
• ISP monitoring. Your internet provider can detect Popcorn Time traffic and may send copyright notices, throttle your connection, or even report your activity.
• Legal consequences. Some countries have strict anti-piracy laws. In 2020, the Supreme Court of Denmark ruled that Popcorn Time users were committing copyright infringement, setting a legal precedent. In some regions, users have been fined or taken to court by copyright holders³.
• Third-party trackers. Copyright enforcement agencies, also known as "copyright trolls," monitor P2P networks and can trace activity back to individual users.

Privacy Risks: Your IP Address is Exposed

Because Popcorn Time runs on P2P technology, your IP address is visible to everyone sharing the file. This means:

• Other users can see your IP and track your location.
• Copyright holders and enforcement agencies can monitor your streaming habits.
• Your ISP can log your activity.

Will a VPN Help?

A VPN won’t make Popcorn Time risk-free, but it does add a strong layer of privacy and security:

• Hides your IP address. A VPN masks your real IP, replacing it with one from a different location. This means your streaming activity can’t be traced back to you.
• Encrypts your traffic. This prevents your ISP from seeing what you’re doing online, and stops hackers and snoops from being able to read or interfere with your connection.
• Blocks malware. Some VPNs have built-in malware protection, helping to prevent infections from malicious Popcorn Time downloads.

How Do I Securely Access Popcorn Time?

Step 1. Choose a Reliable VPN

Start by getting a VPN with strong security features and a proven no-logs policy. I recommend ExpressVPN for its military-grade encryption and fast servers that support HD streaming. It also offers obfuscated servers that mask your VPN traffic as regular web traffic, allowing you to bypass any VPN blocks present on your network.

The button will let you take advantage of the best current deal

Step 2. Install the VPN

Sign up for your chosen VPN, then navigate to the download section to find the app designed for your device, whether it's Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, or another platform.

ExpressVPN offers VPN apps for many popular streaming devices

Step 3. Connect to a Server

Launch your VPN app and connect to a server before opening Popcorn Time. Pick a server location close to you for the best streaming speeds. Your VPN's kill switch should be enabled to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly.

ExpressVPN has servers in over 100 countries

Step 4. Download Popcorn Time

The original Popcorn Time project was shut down. However, because it was open-source, other developers have continued to maintain and distribute versions of the application. To minimize the risk of malware, it's advisable to download Popcorn Time from reputable sources like this GitHub repository, as many unofficial versions may contain harmful software.

Popcorn Time is available on multiple platforms

Step 5. Keep the App Updated

Software updates often include critical security fixes to resolve vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Best VPNs to Safely Use Popcorn Time in 2025

A reliable VPN keeps your data encrypted and private while protecting you from snoopers. I tested numerous VPNs to find ones with robust security features, fast speeds, unlimited bandwidth, and global server networks to maintain privacy and good performance while using Popcorn Time.

1. ExpressVPN — Robust Security and Impressive Speeds to Use Popcorn Time Without Interruptions

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2025

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.expressvpn.com

ExpressVPN uses military-grade encryption to keep your Popcorn Time activity secure. Its firm commitment to privacy, underscored by a strict no-logs policy, makes it a preferred choice for private streaming. Plus, ExpressVPN's high-speed servers are ideal for fast downloads. We got really impressive speeds during our ExpressVPN tests, with just an 8% speed drop. That’s impressive, as most VPNs slow your connection by over 50%, causing constant buffering.

Due to the quality features, it’s a bit pricey. But ExpressVPN runs regular discounts — and best of all, first-time customers can try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day money-back guarantee.

2. CyberGhost — Dedicated P2P Servers for Fast and Safe Popcorn Time Downloads

Works With:

Sky ESPN+ Dazn FIFA+

Netflix Disney+ APV More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost's P2P-optimized servers are specifically designed for faster speeds, stable connections, and stronger privacy while using peer-to-peer networks. During my tests, I downloaded a 1GB file in just a minute. Popcorn Time normally exposes your IP address to other users in the P2P network, but CyberGhost uses DNS and IP leak protection to keep your identity and location hidden.

While the monthly plans are expensive with a short refund period, long-term offers are more affordable, starting at just $2.03/month. Since they come with an extended money-back guarantee, you can try CyberGhost for free for up to 45 days.

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) — Customizable Security to Fine-Tune Your Popcorn Time Experience

Works With:

ESPN+ FIFA+ Netflix Disney+

APV More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.privateinternetaccess.com

PIA lets you adjust encryption levels and protocols to tailor your security and speed. For example, you can use AES 256-bit encryption and the OpenVPN protocol to maximize security on Popcorn Time. Plus, you can connect unlimited devices simultaneously with one subscription. In our tests, we were able to download files on 5 devices at once without noticeable slowdowns.

Unlike user-friendly ExpressVPN, PIA may appear complex due to its extensive customization options. However, it arrives pre-configured for safe browsing. You can get PIA for just $2.03/month.

Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Popcorn Time Streaming

The priority in our testing was evaluating each VPN's security features to protect you from risks while using Popcorn Time. We tested kill switches to see if they blocked internet traffic, preventing data exposure, and ran leak tests to check for IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks. Speed was another crucial factor — we conducted extensive tests to confirm the VPNs could handle HD quick downloads.

Essential Safety Tips for Using Popcorn Time

If you're planning to use Popcorn Time, follow this checklist to protect your privacy and keep your device secure:

Use a VPN With These Key Features

Not all VPNs are equally effective for Popcorn Time. To stay protected, make sure your VPN includes:

• No-logs policy. Prevents tracking by ensuring your browsing and connection data aren’t stored.
• Kill switch. Cuts off your internet if the VPN disconnects, so your real IP never gets exposed.
• P2P support. Optimized servers for peer-to-peer traffic ensure quick downloads and better security.
• Leak protection. Guards against IP, DNS, and WebRTC leaks, keeping your identity hidden.

Download Popcorn Time Safely

To avoid security risks:

• Use verified sources. Stick to well-known repositories like GitHub instead of random websites.
• Check version details. Compare file hashes or signatures with the official releases to confirm authenticity.
• Look at community feedback. See what other users are saying in forums or discussions (for example, on GitHub and Reddit) to avoid sketchy downloads.

Secure Your Device

Taking a few extra steps can reduce security risks while using Popcorn Time:

• Enable automatic updates. If updates are available, install them to fix security vulnerabilities.
• Set up a firewall. Restrict Popcorn Time’s network access to minimize unwanted connections.
• Use antivirus software. Keep an antivirus running to detect potential malware hidden in files.
• Check your VPN connection. Before launching Popcorn Time, make sure your VPN is active and protecting your connection.

FAQs on Popcorn Time Safety

Is Popcorn Time still working?

Popcorn Time’s official site was shut down, but you can still find working versions of the app on GitHub. These are community-supported forks, meaning they are not always maintained or secure. While they might still work, there are risks involved, as some versions could be outdated or modified with malware. Always ensure you're downloading from trusted sources and verify the version before using it.

Does Popcorn Time have viruses?

Yes, Popcorn Time can carry viruses. Even official versions may pose risks, since Popcorn Time uses P2P technology. To stay safe, always download from trusted sources and use a reliable VPN to protect your sensitive data.

Is it risky to use Popcorn Time without a VPN?

Yes, using Popcorn Time without a VPN is risky. Since Popcorn Time relies on P2P technology, your IP address (and therefore, location) is visible to other users. Without encryption, hackers on the same network could also intercept your data, putting your personal information in danger. A VPN helps protect your identity and secures your connection.

Does Popcorn Time save movies to your computer?

Yes, Popcorn Time temporarily saves movies to your computer. It uses P2P technology to store files in a cache folder for playback. This can pose privacy risks, as your activity may be monitored by third parties without proper protection.

Can I use a free VPN with Popcorn Time?

Possibly, but it’s not recommended. Free VPNs often have limited servers, come with slow speeds, and may block P2P traffic entirely. Even worse, some might sell your data or contain malware. It’s a better alternative to use a premium VPN with a trustworthy money-back guarantee.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs to safely access Popcorn Time from anywhere...

Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: Intego, Cyberghost, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.

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References

1. https://arxiv.org/abs/2304.14359?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. https://www.watchguard.com/wgrd-ransomware/popcorn-time
3. https://lundgrens.dk/en/news/supreme-court-denmark-reaches-decision-popcorn-time-case