Is Tubi Safe to Use? Is It a Trusted, Legal Website in 2024
Tubi is a free streaming service, so you might wonder, “Can Tubi be trusted?” It’s a valid concern since some free streaming sites are shady, track your online activity, or host movies and TV shows illegally.
During my research, I checked the platform for viruses, scams, and phishing ad links. I found out whether it’s safe to download and install Tubi apps and register on a website. Plus, I verified whether Tubi TV has pirated content and if it offers features to ensure safety for kids. A key concern is how Tubi collects your personal data.
Using a reliable VPN helps protect against IP tracking on Tubi by hiding your real IP address. This makes it harder for the service to track your specific location or internet behavior. It essentially provides a layer of anonymity, reducing the amount of personal data that Tubi can gather based on your IP-related activities.
My team and I tested over 30 VPNs, and ExpressVPN is our top pick for safe streaming on Tubi. It keeps your online activity private with military-grade encryption and a reliable tracker blocker. It also has impressive speeds for buffer-free HD streaming. Better yet, you can try ExpressVPN without risk as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Quick Guide: How to Watch Tubi With a VPN in 3 Easy Steps
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN due to its robust security features and excellent speeds for buffer-free streaming. It’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
- Connect to a server. Pick any server to secure your traffic and protect your sensitive data from prying eyes. Nearby servers usually provide faster streaming speeds.
- Start streaming. You’re ready to watch Tubi without interruptions.
What Is Tubi and Why Is It Free?
Tubi is a legal streaming service that lets you watch movies and TV shows for free. It’s based in the US, and owned by Fox Corporation. While its collection leans more towards B-movies, you’ll still find plenty of top-notch titles, including classics like Spartacus and The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo.
However, there’s a catch — you’ll encounter a lot of ads while streaming
A user-friendly website makes Tubi easy to watch on almost any device. Plus, it has handy apps for iOS, Android, Roku, and Amazon Fire, so you can stream your favorite shows on the go or from the comfort of your couch.
Tubi is free because it operates on an ad-supported model. For every 15 minutes of streaming, you’ll see about 2 minutes of ads, which is the trade-off for free access. On the bright side, you don’t need to sign up with your email to access the service. However, registration opens some extra features, like watch history and parental controls.
Most movies on Tubi are streamed in 720p, which isn’t the best quality available today. Downloading movies for offline viewing is not an option. Additionally, Tubi’s availability is limited to specific countries — the US, Canada, Mexico, and Australia. Due to licensing rights, you can’t access the site or apps in other locations.
Like many other streaming sites, Tubi is geoblocked
Is Tubi Safe to Use and Will a VPN Help?
Tubi only offers official and legal content, so there’s no risk of encountering pirated movies or shows, and you’re safe from copyright infringement claims.
The apps are free from malware and trackers. Plus, ads shown during streams are reliable and won’t lead you to dangerous or phishing sites, making your viewing experience secure.
However, you should remain cautious about your private data. Tubi collects your personally identifiable information to serve targeted ads and recommendations. On the bright side, you don’t have to sign up to watch its content.
Using a VPN with Tubi can significantly boost your privacy by hiding your real IP address and encrypting your internet connection. This makes it harder for Tubi to collect precise data about your location and viewing habits. Just remember, while a VPN enhances privacy, it doesn’t make you completely anonymous if you’ve already shared personal details with Tubi.
Additionally, a VPN makes it possible to safely watch Tubi from anywhere. Plus, since VPN encryption hides your internet activities from ISPs, they’re less likely to throttle your speeds in response to high bandwidth usage (which is often caused by streaming).
Short on Time? Here Are the Best VPNs to Safely Watch Tubi in 2024
-
Editor’s ChoiceExpressVPN
Military-grade encryption and excellent speeds for safe and buffer-free streaming anywhere.70% of our readers choose ExpressVPN -
CyberGhost
Easy-to-use apps to effortlessly protect your online activity while watching Tubi. -
Private Internet Access
Extensive server network to safely stream movies and shows on Tubi without restrictions.
How to Safely Watch Tubi
Here’s a detailed guide on how to effectively set up and use a VPN to safely watch Tubi:
Step 1. Pick a Reliable VPN
When choosing a VPN, go for one that’s known for solid security and speedy connections, such as ExpressVPN. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- AES-256 encryption. This is the gold standard for security, keeping your data super safe.
- No-logs policy. Make sure the VPN doesn’t keep a record of what you do online.
- Kill switch. This is a must-have. It cuts your internet if the VPN connection fails, keeping your info from leaking.
- Plenty of server locations. More countries mean more options to safely access the content you want.
Step 2. Install the VPN Software
After subscribing to a VPN service, download the software from its official website. Follow the installation instructions provided, which typically involve a few simple clicks.
ExpressVPN is compatible with a wide range of devices
Step 3. Connect to a VPN Server
Launch the VPN application — you’ll see a list of available server locations. For general privacy, any server location will enhance your security by encrypting your traffic.
With a reliable VPN, it’s possible to safely watch Tubi anywhere
Step 4. Navigate to Tubi’s Website or App
Once the VPN is connected and running, open your web browser or Tubi app. If you’re on a desktop computer, you might need to clear your browser cache or use incognito mode to prevent location leaks via cookies from previous sessions.
Step 5. Create a Tubi Account (Optional)
You can register for an account on Tubi if you want, which might be beneficial for saving favorites, getting recommendations, and using parental controls to manage what kids can watch. However, if maintaining maximum privacy is your goal, you can skip this step, as Tubi allows viewing without an account.
Tubi will ask you about your name, email, password, age, and gender
Step 6. Start Streaming
Search for the show or movie you want to watch and start streaming. Your connection is private and secure.
Best VPNs to Safely Watch Tubi in 2024
By choosing the right VPN service, it’s possible to safely watch Tubi from anywhere. My top choices are secure, offer fast speeds, and have a wide selection of servers worldwide.
| Lowest Price | Server Network | Device Support | Device Connections | Refund Period | |
 ExpressVPN |
$6.67/month | 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and Australia | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, gaming consoles, routers, and more | 8 | 30 days |
 CyberGhost |
$2.19/month | 11,690 servers in 100 countries, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and Australia | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, gaming consoles, routers, and more | 7 | 45 days |
 PIA |
$2.19/month | 29,650 servers in 91 countries, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and Australia | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, smart TVs, gaming consoles, routers, and more | Unlimited | 30 days |
1. ExpressVPN — Robust Security and Excellent Speeds to Watch Tubi Without Interruptions
Editor’s Choice
Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested August 2024
Netflix
Disney+
APV
HBO Max
Hulu
BBC iPlayer
Sky
More
ExpressVPN really steps up when it comes to keeping your browsing private on free streaming sites like Tubi. By hiding your real IP address and encrypting your data, it makes it tough for anyone to track your activity. Plus, its strict no-logs policy means the VPN doesn’t keep records of what you’re doing. It’s also recommended that you turn on Advanced Protection features that significantly reduce tracking on Tubi.
With ample worldwide servers, ExpressVPN is perfect for securely accessing Tubi anywhere. It’s also the fastest VPN we tested for buffer-free streaming. It only reduced our download speeds by 4%, which is impressive compared to many VPNs that can slow you down by over 50%.
My only gripe is that subscription plans are a bit pricey. Luckily, ExpressVPN regularly offers generous discounts and includes a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free.
2. CyberGhost — User-Friendly Apps That Easily Secure Your Online Activities on Tubi
CyberGhost’s apps are user-friendly — perfect if you’re new to VPNs. I got it up and running on my laptop in under 5 minutes. The VPN comes with a cool feature called Smart Rules, which automatically launches Tubi as soon as CyberGhost establishes a safe connection. This saves you the hassle of having to remember to activate the VPN every time you want to protect your data with encryption and a kill switch, keeping you safe even on public WiFi.
Sadly, the monthly plans are quite expensive. However, CyberGhost offers more budget-friendly long-term options starting at just $2.19/month. They also provide a generous 45-day money-back guarantee, so you can test drive CyberGhost with Tubi for free.
3. Private Internet Access — Massive Server Network to Safely Access Tubi Anywhere
PIA boasts the biggest server network of all the VPNs I recommend, packed with tons of reliable servers in the US and other countries. This means you can stream Tubi safely from anywhere. Plus, a single subscription lets you securely watch Tubi on all your devices — perfect for big families. I put PIA to the test by connecting 8 devices simultaneously, and it handled everything smoothly without any lag.
Unlike CyberGhost, PIA might seem complicated to use due to its many customization options. However, it’s pre-configured for secure streaming — just pick a nearby server, and you’re set to watch Tubi privately. Besides, you can snag PIA for only $2.19/month.
Our Methodology for Testing VPNs for Tubi
When looking for the best VPNs for Tubi, there are several key features to consider. I started by examining each VPN’s security and privacy capabilities to enhance safe streaming on free platforms like Tubi. My testing team also tested how these VPNs handled UHD streaming to check for potential buffering issues. Besides, we focused on the reliability of server networks to determine how well the VPNs perform with Tubi.
What Does Tubi Do With Your Data?
Tubi TV tracks your activities and collects personal information. Let’s examine what data is affected.
Data Collection Policies
Tubi’s website and apps gather a lot of your personally identifiable information, such as:
- Registration information. You don’t need to register for an account to watch movies and shows. However, if you want personalized recommendations, watch history, and parental controls, you need to sign up with your name and email address. You’ll also be asked to provide your age and gender.
- Information from social media. If you access Tubi through a social media service, it gathers your user ID associated with that platform, username, profile picture, email, and friends list.
- Activity information. When you interact with Tubi (whether you are registered or not), it collects information about your device, browser, and even precise location.
- Cookies and tracking technologies. Tubi employs cookies, pixels, and beacons to collect data from your devices to improve personalization.
- Information from other sources. Although that’s a fairly common practice, it might be surprising to some that Tubi enriches its database with your publicly available data — “your online and offline activity from social media services” and other available sources.
It’s important for users to be aware of these practices
- Do Not Track signals. Tubi’s policy regarding Do Not Track (DNT) signals is clear: they don’t change their data collection and tracking practices even if these signals are enabled in your browser. DNT is a browser feature that requests websites not to track the user, but Tubi’s stance means they will continue their usual data handling regardless of DNT settings. This contrasts with other services, where some might adjust their tracking, and others may partially comply.
Ways Tubi Uses Your Data
Tubi shares your data with third parties, who may use it for various purposes:
- Service providers. Tubi provides them with your data for analytics, customer support, and transaction processing.
- Social media services. Your information is exchanged to integrate Tubi with your social media accounts, enabling account connectivity and targeted ads.
- Video content partners. Tubi supplies data to these partners to process your video content requests and fulfill orders, ensuring you get the content you seek.
- Co-branded service partners. Information is shared in relation to joint services like contests or promotions.
- Ad networks. Your data aids in delivering targeted ads and marketing efforts across the web.
- Company affiliates. Tubi exchanges data with its affiliates, using it to support operational and marketing activities that align with its policies.
- Business partners. Your information is shared with partners for target marketing communications.
- Legal and regulatory authorities. In cases of legal obligations or security needs, Tubi discloses data for compliance and fraud prevention.
- Parties in corporate transactions. Your stored information may be part of the transferred assets after the company’s mergers, acquisitions, or bankruptcy.
Most of the information is supposedly used to improve service quality
Tubi offers several opt-out mechanisms if you wish to limit how your data is used. It’s possible to pull out of tailored advertising on desktop and mobile browsers through specific opt-out websites. You can find the links in Tubi’s privacy policy. For mobile apps, use your device’s settings to opt out of ad personalization. On connected TVs, similar settings are available for opting out of interest-based ads.
Additionally, Tubi allows you to stop receiving promotional materials via account settings or email unsubscribe options and offers processes for accessing, correcting, or deleting personal data through web forms. Ironically, to do so, you have to verify your identity by providing even more personal information like your country, device ID, and IP address.
Is Tubi Safe for Kids?
Tubi is a safe streaming platform for children, if properly supervised. All movies are rated according to age recommendations. For example, “PG-13” means parents strongly cautioned because some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
As mentioned before, if you sign up for Tubi, you’ll get access to Parental Controls, which lets you limit exposure to inappropriate content. This feature allows you to set acceptable content ratings for an account, preventing access to age-restricted films and shows.
Parents can restrict access to age-inappropriate content
When you sign up for Tubi, it asks for your age. If you’re under 13, you get access to Tubi Kids, a section with shows and movies for younger viewers. But there’s no verification process, so a kid could easily enter an older age. That’s why it’s a good idea for parents to set up the account with their kids to ensure they’re only seeing age-appropriate content.
Tubi has a fantastic selection of shows and movies that kids will love
Tips to Stay Safe on Tubi
Besides a trustworthy VPN, I’ve discovered some other handy safety tricks for Tubi TV that work great for most streaming sites and apps too:
- Create a separate email for Tubi TV. Using a dedicated email for Tubi minimizes risks associated with email phishing and data breaches. This approach also safeguards your real contact data.
- Regularly update Tubi TV apps. Updates often include security enhancements, so keeping the app up-to-date improves your safety.
- Use unique and strong passwords. This practice safeguards your Tubi account and keeps other accounts safe (in case the company’s servers are breached).
- Stream on secure WiFi networks. Streaming on a secure network reduces the risk of unauthorized data access and ensures your streaming activity remains private.
- Install anti-malware on your devices. Anti-malware software provides an additional layer of protection against potential threats encountered while streaming.
If you’re interested in online privacy and want to dive deeper, check out our expert guides for comprehensive insights:
How I Measured if Tubi Is Safe and Trustworthy
I used several methods to check if Tubi is safe and trustworthy. They include thorough manual scans, in-depth research, and some strategic investigative work.
- HTTPS check. I confirmed that Tubi’s website uses HTTPS in its URL. This means that any data exchanged between Tubi and your device is encrypted, adding an extra layer of security to your online interactions with their site.
You can check Tubi’s connection status through your browser
- Privacy policy analysis. I analyzed Tubi’s privacy policy to understand how they handle users’ data.
- Anti-virus scanning of Tubi apps. A scan showed that Tubi apps have no malware and are safe for installation.
- Scam and legality verification. Online scam checkers helped confirm Tubi’s legal standing and operational legitimacy.
At the time of the scan, there was no sign of harmful activity linked to Tubi’s URL
- Legal research. I made sure there were no data breaches or piracy-related scandals around Tubi.
- Content authenticity inspection. Scouring Tubi for potentially illegal content verified the absence of CamRips or suspicious recent releases.
- App permission review. I scrutinized the permissions Tubi’s app requests upon installation and use.
FAQs on Tubi Safety
Is Tubi legal?
Yes, Tubi is absolutely legal despite being free to use. If you ever wondered, “What is the catch with Tubi?”, the platform shares your data with ad networks and business partners. So you don’t pay with money but with your personal data.
What are the downsides of Tubi TV?
Tubi TV streams at 720p max and lacks high-quality releases and original content compared to platforms like Netflix or Hulu. While being free, Tubi collects and shares your personal information. Besides, you can’t download content for offline viewing, and Tubi isn’t available in many countries due to geoblocks.
Does Tubi track me?
Yes, Tubi tracks user data, primarily for personalizing content and targeting advertisements. It collects information about the shows you watch, your viewing habits, and device data. This data is used to tailor your viewing experience and to show ads that are more relevant to your interests.
Is Tubi free on smart TVs?
Yes, Tubi is free on smart TVs. If you’ve got an Android smart TV, you can easily download the Tubi app right onto it. But if you’re using a smart TV with a different system, like Samsung or LG, get Tubi by using Roku or an Amazon Fire Stick. Just download the app there and start watching. Tubi apps are safe from malware and viruses.
What’s worth watching on Tubi?
Tubi offers a diverse range of movies and TV shows. You can find recent releases, such as The Lighthouse, Another Round, and Snowpiercer. The platform offers classics like Dial M for Murder and Midsomer Murders. All content on Tubi is legal and freely available, perfect for binge-watching on a lazy weekend.
To summarize, these are the best VPNs to safely access Tubi anywhere
React to this headline:
