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Here’s how ‘Netflix for Pirates’ will protect your illegal downloads

Updated Feb 10th, 2015 10:34AM EST
Popcorn Time: VPN, I2P and P2P

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Popular movie and TV show Torrent-streaming site Popcorn Time, a service that is also known as “Netflix for Pirates,” is taking even more measures to make sure its users are able to safely enjoy its services. As Torrent Freak has learned, the service is looking into adding I2P support and P2P technology to Popcorn Time, in order to further anonymize traffic and protect the app’s users.

FROM EARLIER: ‘Netflix for pirates’ app Popcorn Time finally hits the iPhone and iPad

Because Popcorn Time isn’t exactly a legal service since people use it to stream pirated movies and TV shows, various anti-piracy organizations might be looking into preventing people from using the service.

As a result, Popcorn Time offers users access to a free VPN option, meant to anonymize their Internet traffic when it comes to streaming content through the service. But the team told TorrentFreak that the increasing number of Popcorn Time fans using the service at the same time — either on Windows, Mac, iOS or Android — is putting additional pressure on the VPN, which means additional measures are needed.

“Our user base grew so quickly and is still growing at a tremendous pace that we’re having difficulties keeping up with the volume. Only a small percentage of the huge number of our users we have can use the VPN simultaneously at the moment,” the team said.

Popcorn Time is considering adding I2P technology, which anonymizes Internet traffic like Tor, but it’s optimized for file-sharing. However, I2P could also lead to slower downloads that would hinder the Popcorn Time streaming experience.

Additionally, the team is also looking at P2P sharing technology, so users can still enjoy streaming even if the service is experiencing downtime.

Chris Smith Senior Writer

Chris Smith has been covering consumer electronics ever since the iPhone revolutionized the industry in 2008. When he’s not writing about the most recent tech news for BGR, he brings his entertainment expertise to Marvel’s Cinematic Universe and other blockbuster franchises.

Outside of work, you’ll catch him streaming almost every new movie and TV show release as soon as it's available.