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Coming across free streaming sites, like Soap2day, that let you watch your favorite shows and movies might feel like something that’s godsent.
But what you fail to realize is that these illegal streaming websites could be a hotbed for malware.
This joint study carried out by cybersecurity company RiskIQ and Digital Citizens Alliance, reveals that websites disseminating pirated content have a higher chance of exposing users to malware than legitimate sites.
One particular site that we’d like to draw your attention to, is Soap2Day. In the following post, we’ll examine the risks that arise from watching content on this platform, and safer alternatives that you can use.
What is Soap2Day?
This is a website that lets you view the most recent films and tv series at no cost.
Although we know that the platform was established back in 2018, the masterminds behind its creation remain a mystery. The fact that the inventors prefer to remain anonymous is already a red flag.
Despite this, the site’s popularity has soared, and it currently has millions of individuals who’ve registered to use it.
And with more people being forced to stay and work from home due to the pandemic, the site has become all the more prominent. So much so that its developers now offer five domains that users can select from depending on their locale. These are .ga, .to, .se, .is, .im.
Risks of using Soap2Day
If you’re planning to use Soap2Day to watch any content- something we don’t recommend- then you should at least know what you’re getting yourself into. Here is a rundown of key concerns:
Malicious software
The biggest concern from using Soap2Day is the fact that you may end up with a ton of malware software on your computer.
In fact, some users end up with dangerous and irrelevant programs on their computer. Some of these programs track your online activities; hence, targeting you for specific ads.
In worst case scenarios, some applications are designed to steal essential information from your device; and use it for ransom.
Copyright infringement
If that doesn’t scare you enough to stop using Soap2Day, then consider the fact that streaming pirated content infringes on the owner’s patent or copyrights.
Here’s the deal, most (if not all) of the tv shows and films showcased on this website are obtained illegally. This could be through leaks of the original content, in-theater recordings or recordings from legal streaming platforms.
Regardless of the source, streaming pirated content is wrong, especially because it causes a significant revenue loss for the original content creators. This study shows that the movie industry loses billions of money due to piracy. If for no other reason, your moral sense should stop you from watching such pirated content.
Inappropriate content
Another factor you should think about, especially if you’re letting your kids watch content on Soap2Day, is the ready availability of inappropriate content.
By “inappropriate”, we’re referring to:
- Any content that upsets your child
- Material that’s meant for adult viewing
- False information or details that cause your child to engage in unlawful behavior
Unlike legal streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu, Soap2Day doesn’t invest in moderators who can sort content into age-appropriate categories. Any user has access to the content posted, regardless of their age.
If you want to protect your child, switch to kid-friendly streaming platforms like:
- PBS Kids
- Netflix Kids
- Nickelodeon
- DisneyNOW
- Amazon FreeTime
- Cartoon Network
Tips to Stay Safe when Streaming Online
Given the risks that come with streaming content, especially from illegal sites like Soap2Day, it helps to learn strategies that can enhance your online safety. These are:
Use a virtual private network (VPN)
If you really have to stream movies and tv shows from Soap2Day, the least you can do is install a VPN.
What this does is that it creates a form of encryption so your IP address remains hidden from third-parties. This means that even if you log in to Soap2Day, the site won’t be able to access your network data or personal information.
That said, you’ll want to ensure that you’re investing in reputable VPN services such as these 10 best vpn services we reviewed. VPNs can give you full privacy and improve your safety by changing your location. Here’s the best VPN we recommend:
Best for PC, Mac and Netflix streaming
ExpressVPN
Fast and anonymous VPN with a ton of worldwide servers
- Speed:
- Protection:
- Ease of use:
- Value for money:
Use reputable websites
Of course the safest alternative is to stop using Soap2Day altogether, and resort to more reputable streaming platforms, like these top 10 best streaming services we reviewed. They’re cheap and some even offer a free trial!
This gives you an opportunity to try out its features, and if you end up not liking it, you can unsubscribe rather than upgrade to one of its paid plans. Here’s the best streaming service you can try for free:
Best overall for movies & TV shows
Amazon Prime Video streaming service
This streaming service offers a ton of new movies & TV shows. Some are even Amazon originals, meaning they aren’t available elsewhere. Besides, they offer a free one-month trial, subtitles and other benefits when shopping at Amazon.
- Streaming speed:
- Ease of use:
- Content:
- Value for money:
Don’t give away any personal information
When you’ve decided which streaming site you’re going to use, the first thing you should do is read the fine print. This way, you’re well-versed with all its enrollment policies.
The reason we recommend going through their policy first is because some streaming platforms like Soap2day ask for very intricate details that aren’t really necessary. If any platform starts asking about your social security number, banking account details or place of birth, do not offer up this information.
Granted, the streaming site may be asking for these details for payment purposes. However, you should only sign up if you’re confident in their ability to offer secure checkouts. And if the streaming service is being offered for free, then you shouldn’t have to provide any payment details.
Wrap Up
Free streaming services like Soap2Day are great if you’re looking to save a few bucks on entertainment. But one thing you should never forget is that such platforms have a ton of disadvantages.
Let’s start off with the fact that your viewing will be constantly interrupted by ads. Secondly, watching content on Soap2Day could serve as a vehicle for suspicious malware being sent to your computer.
Another aspect that makes Soap2Day unattractive is its lack of content filtration. If you have kids who like to stream, they may end up watching inappropriate content on the site.
The easiest way to avoid all these is to use reputable streaming platforms. If you want to stream on a budget, then look for service providers who offer free trials or money-back guarantees. This way, you can get reimbursed if you wind up not liking the platform.
