Is Tubi safe and private in 2026?

What is Tubi and how does it work?

Tubi TV is a legal streaming service that gives users access to a wide selection of movies and TV shows. It follows the so-called advertising video on demand (AVOD) model, where content is completely free to watch, and the platform makes money by showing ads during playback.

Since 2020, Tubi has been owned by Fox Corporation. It licenses content from major studios like Lionsgate, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Discovery, so the library is both large and full of familiar favorites.

To use it, you don't need a credit card, and it comes without subscription fees. You can open the app and watch Tubi right away. Those who want a more personalized experience can create a free account, which provides features like watchlists, viewing history, and recommendations based on what you've already seen.

If you install the app from trusted sources like Google Play, App Store, or your TV's built-in marketplace, the Tubi app should be safe to use. You can expect no malware or sketchy redirects — just ad-supported content that is legally licensed and freely available.

The real question isn't whether the app itself is dangerous, but how much of your personal information it collects and shares.

Is Tubi generally considered legit and safe to use?

Generally, most users consider Tubi a legitimate service. It has been around for years, is owned by a major media company, and offers licensed content through a trusted streaming service.

That said, we need to remember the gray area. Just because something is legal doesn't mean it poses no risks. You're not paying with money, but you might be giving up more personal information than you realize, especially when it comes to ad targeting and how your viewing data is used.

As mentioned, Tubi is safe to use when you download it from official stores or your TV's built-in marketplace. Problems can start when the app is downloaded from unofficial sources — third-party websites, modified APKs, or other places Tubi doesn't control. These versions may come with privacy and security risks that have nothing to do with the real service.

Understanding potential risks and privacy concerns with Tubi

Using Tubi comes with certain risks and privacy concerns. While it doesn't require a payment, it does involve sharing some personal information. Like most ad-supported platforms, when you watch Tubi content, this TV streaming service collects data to keep the service running, personalize content, and deliver targeted ads. 

Below are the key areas to be aware of, as outlined in Tubi's privacy policy.

Data collection

When you watch Tubi, the platform gathers various types of personal data depending on how you use it. Such data collection can include your IP address, device type, browser version, operating system, and what content you watch. If you choose to register, your email address is also stored and tied to your activity. These details help the platform deliver content smoothly and keep track of how users interact with it.

Data usage

The information collected is used to personalize your viewing experience, recommend content, and deliver targeted advertising. It's also used for analytics — measuring what's popular, which devices are most common, and how users move through the app or website. While this is standard practice in the world of streaming services, it means your viewing habits are continuously monitored and processed in the background.

Third-party sharing

Tubi works with a range of external partners to support its service. Some of your information — like device identifiers, ad interactions, and general location — may be shared with advertisers and analytics providers. Doing so allows them to measure ad performance, avoid showing the same ads repeatedly, and target campaigns more effectively.

Advertising model

As a free service built around advertising, Tubi includes frequent ad breaks in most movies and TV shows. While watching Tubi itself is considered safe, the ads are delivered by third-party networks. That means there's always a small chance of lower-quality or misleading ads appearing. These ads may lead you off the platform, so it's smart to be cautious when clicking anything that looks suspicious or overly aggressive.

Unsecured networks

When you watch Tubi on public or unsecured Wi-Fi — like in airports, hotels, or coffee shops — your data isn't directly exposed to the platform because Tubi uses HTTPS encryption to protect the information transmitted between your device and the service. However, your overall connection may still be vulnerable. Without added protection, other users on the same network could try to manipulate your connection, potentially intercept browsing activity, or exploit unsecured apps. That's not specific to Tubi, but it's something to keep in mind when streaming away from home.

Tips for using Tubi more securely

If you are wondering if Tubi is safe to use, it's key to remember that it is when downloaded from an official source. Of course, just like when using any other ad-supported streaming service, it's smart to take a few extra steps to protect your data, especially if you're creating an account, using shared devices, or streaming on the go.

Only download the official app

Always download the Tubi mobile app from the Google Play Store for Android or the Apple App Store for iOS. Avoid third-party download sites because unofficial app versions may be modified or bundled with malware, adware, or hidden tracking tools.

Use a strong, unique password

If you create a Tubi TV account, choose a strong password you haven't used on other services. Avoid using simple or reused logins, which are more vulnerable to brute-force attacks. A password manager can help generate and store complex passwords safely.

Keep your app and device up to date

Ensure both the Tubi app and your device's operating system are regularly updated to implement the latest security patches. Such updates often include important fixes for bugs and vulnerabilities that could be exploited if left unpatched.

Watch out for phishing scams

Be cautious of unexpected emails, texts, or pop-up ads pretending to be from Tubi because they may be phishing attempts. These messages may ask for your login info or direct you to suspicious websites. Never click links that feel off. To stay safe, go straight to the official app or website. Additionally, use a link checker to see if the link is safe to click on. 

Use parental controls for younger viewers

If children are using the service, enable parental controls and activate Tubi Kids mode. Doing so helps filter age-appropriate streaming content and reduce the chances of kids accessing shows or seeing ads not meant for them. It also creates a more worry-free environment for families sharing a device.

Taking a few minutes to set these protections in place can go a long way in keeping your data secure and your streaming experience private — even on a free platform like Tubi TV.

How NordVPN improves your safety and privacy on Tubi

Streaming on an unprotected connection can come with certain risks — from security vulnerabilities to reduced privacy. While Tubi doesn't require a VPN to function, NordVPN can help improve your overall streaming experience, especially in terms of connection stability and privacy.

One common issue is bandwidth throttling, where internet service providers slow down internet traffic based on your online activities. This practice can cause buffering or lower video quality, even when your internet should be fast enough. NordVPN helps prevent throttling by encrypting your internet traffic, making it harder for ISPs to detect and limit streaming activity.

Using NordVPN on public Wi-Fi — like in cafés, airports, or hotels — also adds an extra layer of security. It keeps your data encrypted, helping protect you from anyone else connected to the same network who might try to intercept your traffic.

If you're traveling, NordVPN can help maintain access to your usual services by allowing you to connect to a server in your home country. This means you can still access home content and enjoy a consistent online experience without depending on unfamiliar or potentially insecure networks.

For added reliability, especially on smart TVs or streaming devices, NordVPN SmartPlay combines VPN encryption with SmartDNS technology to make streaming smoother and more secure without any manual setup.

If something isn't working quite right while you're connected to a VPN, consider trying out several tips on VPN streaming issues that can help you get things back on track.