StreamEast: Is it safe to use in 2022? What are good alternatives?

Ruheni Mathenge  - Cybersecurity editor
Last updated: October 10, 2022
Read time: 12 minutes Disclosure
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StreamEast is popular because it provides free sports content, but it might not be safe or legal for everyone. Find all about it with some safe StreamEast alternatives in this guide.

Sneak peek at StreamEast and how to use it safely

StreamEast is a free sports streaming site for binge-watchers. However, it’s not universally available. In fact, it is geo-restricted in many countries for hosting copyrighted content. Nonetheless, it doesn’t mean you would miss out on your favorite sports. Using a VPN, you can easily switch your online location to a country that allows StreamEast. Alternatively, you can try using safe StreamEast alternatives listed in this guide to avoid legal issues.

StreamEast is one of the most popular free sports streaming sites that allows you to watch matches, news, and events. It broadcasts various games, including Soccer, MLB, NFL, tennis, cricket, golf, boxing, basketball, etc., from around the world. However, it might not be safe or legal to watch StreamEast in your country because it shows copyrighted content. In some countries, the consequence may be a warning, while in others, you can be fined heavily or even incarcerated. 

In this article, we’ll look at the legality of StreamEast and whether it is safe to use the platform. Also, we’ll suggest popular legal alternatives.

Disclaimer: This article only provides information about StreamEast and we don’t condone piracy by any means. Also, we are not lawyers, so it isn’t legal counsel. In addition, most countries have copyright laws that may constantly change, so be on the lookout. Finally, if you are unsure about your country’s stance on piracy, contact a local legal expert before using free streaming sites like StreamEast.

Is it illegal to stream StreamEast?

Most countries value intellectual properties and protect them by enforcing strict copyright laws. That means authorities can be on your case for downloading or streaming copyrighted content. However, some countries allow it altogether or for personal use. 

Therefore, you should check your country’s rules regarding copyright infringement before using free streaming sites like StreamEast. Below is some countries’ stance on piracy. 

Stand on piracy Countries 
Pirating is illegal France, Germany, China, Australia, Britain, Italy, Finland, Japan, Portugal, Latvia, Russia, United States, South Africa
Piracy is illegal, but there aren’t active prosecutions Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Czech Republic, Denmark, India, Egypt, Greece, Israel, Mexico, Iran, Philippines, the Netherlands, Slovakia, Singapore, Romania, Uruguay, Slovenia
Piracy is permittedSwitzerland, Spain, Poland 

But why would one get into trouble for streaming copyrighted content without downloading it? We hear you ask.

Well, there is not much difference between downloading and streaming copyrighted content. That is because a video has to download first for you to stream it in real-time. It then gets deleted from your device when you leave the site. 

Apart from different laws, countries also differ in terms of the consequences of breaking copyright rules. For example, in countries like France, Germany, and Italy, you can be fined if you are caught downloading or streaming copyrighted content.

On the other hand, some countries are not keen on people using illegal streaming services, so you might only get a warning. Instead, they go after distributors of the copyrighted content.

Thus, whether streaming StreamEast is safe or legal depends on the country you’re planning to watch it in. If that region allows such sites, you’re safe. If not, you should better switch to any permitted StreamEast alternative platform to watch your favorite sports. (Scroll down to find some reliable StreamEast alternatives in this guide.)

How to watch StreamEast safely?

StreamEast
(Screenshot of https://streameast.to/)

As explained above, you shouldn’t access free streaming sites like StreamEast if copyright laws in your country are strict. However, some countries have lenient rules, and you can use it even if for personal use. 

However, as long as you are streaming online, you should protect yourself from malware and spies. It includes installing an antivirus tool to prevent viruses and a VPN from securing your data and keeping you anonymous. 

A VPN will keep you invisible online, but this is not an excuse to break the law. Also, while VPNs are generally legal, some countries prohibit using VPNs. So, we advise you to follow the local rules or consult an expert if you are unsure. 

Risks of using StreamEast

The popularity of free streaming services is rising tremendously, but are they safe? That’s a question you should ask yourself first to ensure security on StreamEast.

First of all, as mentioned earlier, some countries view using free streaming sites as illegal. So, you can be arrested or fined heavily.

Secondly, many free streaming sites like StreamEast have poor security. As a result, you can easily be hacked or even worse. 

Thirdly, many free streaming sites contain malware, including the dreaded ransomware and spyware. They are disguised as ads and can compromise your private data or take over your computer. 

Another major issue with popular free streaming sites like StreamEast is cloning, also known as mirror sites. They are created and managed by third parties that aren’t associated with the original site. Unfortunately, these sites are so many, and it isn’t easy to identify the genuine ones

Watch out for mirror sites

The downside of mirror sites is that malicious actors can operate them to track your data or infect your device with malware. Also, authorities cannot control them because they are put back online with a different name after being shut down.


Can a VPN actually keep me safe on StreamEast?

As you have seen above, using free streaming sites like StreamEast comes with many threats. However, you can take precautions to maintain your security when using these sites. The best way to protect your online connections is to use a virtual private network (VPN)

Our top recommendations offer high-quality encryption to prevent access to the data transmitted through your network. They use a robust algorithm so that no one can decipher your information.

Some services like NordVPN offers an effective ad blocker to eliminate ads when watching on free streaming sites like StreamEast. Also, it blocks malware to keep you safe against viruses from fake streaming platforms.

Apart from solid encryption and ad/malware blocker, VPNs also have a kill switch. It will cut off your network if the VPN goes down to keep you private always. Also, they have DNS leak protection to prevent your DNS request from routing through your ISP servers, which can reveal your identity.

Furthermore, a VPN will also help you bypass geo-restrictions and access blocked content of premium sites like Netflix in other countries. Also, it comes in handy when torrenting as it will protect your connections when using torrenting sites.

Best VPNs for StreamEast

Not all VPNs are suitable for online streaming. Below are the two most prolific VPN services on the market. 

1. ExpressVPN 

ExpressVPN

Our top recommended VPN to watch StreamEast anywhere in the world. It has blazing-fast servers and top-notch security. Moreover, it comes with 30-day money-back guanrantee.

servers 3000 servers in over 92 countries 
encryption Solid AES-256-bit encryption
protection Offers web leak protection on all known browsers
P2P optimized servers Is P2P friendly provider
Kill switch Has kill switch feature
Trusted servers nord TrustedServer technology
Zero-logs policy Boasts zero-logs policy
simultaneous connections Allows 5 simultaneous connections
money-back guarantee 30-day for the money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Multiple US server locations work best for unblocking StreamEast abroad
  • Powerful encryption
  • Water-tight security
Cons
  • Streaming servers are not labeled

ExpressVPN is our top recommendation service for watching StreamEast. The server network is decent, comprising more than 3000 servers in over 94 countries in 160 locations. In addition, it has excellent unblocking capabilities, so you’ll be able to evade the restrictions of legal streaming sites like Netflix

Another reason for choosing ExpressVPN is its fast-speed servers that enable you to watch your favorite content on StreamEast in high quality. Also, its extensive server infrastructure will help distribute the traffic load, so you will unlikely get slow connections. 

You can watch StreamEast on multiple devices, thanks to ExpressVPN’s compatibility with various operating systems. It works well with Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, routers, and Firestick. 

The military-grade AES 256-bit encryption makes it ideal for StreamEast privacy. It will prevent your ISP from seeing that you are streaming online, so it won’t throttle your bandwidth. Also, even authorities will not be able to access your traffic.

Importantly, it will maintain your anonymity by not storing any data that can reveal your identity or location. The provider adheres to a strict no-logs policy, and the TrustedServer technology prevents the servers from saving any data.


2. NordVPN 

NordVPN

All-around service to use StreamEast from anywhere. It is well-known for its water-tight security and stealth servers.

servers Over 5400 VPN servers in 60 countries 
P2P optimized servers P2P (torrenting) optimized nodes
encryption Military-grade AES-256-bit encryption
Zero-logs policy Zero-logging
Kill switch Kill switch feature
simultaneous connections Allows up to 6 simultaneous connections per account
protection Web protection
MultiHop mode Multi-Hop (double VPN) mode
money-back guarantee 30-days of money-back guarantee
Pros
  • Top-notch security and privacy
  • Vast server network
  • Around the clock customer support
Cons
  • Tricky desktop apps

NordVPN is another trustworthy VPN service for safe StreamEast streaming. Its servers produce sufficient speed to stream high-definition content. Also, it has unlimited bandwidth and data so that you can watch unrestricted media. 

The provider operates more than 5400 servers in 60 countries, which will enable you to evade geo-restrictions. As a result, you will expand your entertainment scope by accessing blocked content on other popular streaming services like Netflix. 

One notable feature that ExpressVPN doesn’t have is the ad blocker known as CyberSec. It will block all the intrusive ads that interrupt your viewing experience. Also, the feature stops sites that host malware to keep you safe. 

NordVPN is a comprehensive security tool. It uses advanced features such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, perfect forward secrecy, etc. In addition, the split tunneling feature lets you divert part of your traffic outside the VPN tunnel. 

The VPN does not retain any logs that can be used to compromise your privacy. Also, all its servers are RAM-based, which means they can store any data. The company is headquartered in Panama, which isn’t part of the 5/9/14 Eyes alliance.


Some of the reasons why the popularity of StreamEast is rising include,

  • It has a chatbox feature that allows sports enthusiasts to communicate in real-time. 
  • Provides a diverse sports category, including darts, handball, cycling, Nascar, etc. 
  • The website has pleasing aesthetics with a dual-color tone for a better experience. 
  • Its interface is smooth and straightforward, making it extremely easy to navigate. 
  • Offers a simple search engine to help you find streams easily.
  • Allows you to change the subtitles to different languages.

Premium streaming services like Netflix pay a lot of money on license agreements to host and broadcast content. So, a streaming service that offers free content is probably illegal. 

The best way to avoid getting into trouble with copyrighted content is by using subscription-based streaming services. Fortunately, they have a vast collection of original titles and content from other networks. Below are some of the famous legal StreamEast alternatives. 

Streaming websiteDescription 
ESPN Plus It is perhaps the best sports streaming service and a must-have if you are a sports fanatic. Besides NHL, MLS, and hockey, it also broadcasts global soccer like LaLiga and Bundesliga, FA, EFL Championship, etc. It also hosts exclusive shows like Peyton’s Places. 
Hulu Plus Live TVHulu Plus Live TV is a great sports streaming website. It comes with an ESPN Plus subscription alongside other majors like TBS, FS1, TNT, and FS2. 
Peacock The perk of the Peacock streaming site is the premier league soccer and shows like Sunday Night Football. Apart from hosting WWE content and IndyCar, the site recently added PGA tour events. In addition, its on-demand library contains popular shows like The Office, 30 Rock, Will, Grace, Cheers, etc. The site doesn’t have DVR features for live sports or 4K content but allows you to stream up to 3 devices. Also, it offers parental control, which is an excellent feature if you have kids. 
YouTube  TV YouTube TV has an incredible selection of sports channels like CBS Sports, Golf Channel, NBA TV, MLB Network, Tennis Channel, FS1, FS2, etc. Besides sports, the platform also hosts other content with various entertainment and news channels. Thankfully, it lets you stream on three devices and offer unlimited cloud DVR storage. 
Amazon Prime VideoIt qualifies as a sports streaming service because of shows like Night Football, select Yankees games, and WNBA matchups. Also, it offers an option to add sports channels to your subscription like NBA League Pass, Paramount+, and PGA Tour Live. Amazon also produces behind-the-scene scenes of various professional sports teams in a show known as All or Nothing.  
FuboTVFuboTV is a fantastic sports streaming site with several channels like NBA TV, NBC, NFL Network, TNT, CBS, etc. It also has international sports channels like beIN Sports, TUDN, Fox Deportes, and GOL TV. On top of sports, the site has an impressive news and entertainment lineup.  
DAZNThis streaming site concentrates mainly on fighting sports, especially boxing and UFC. Other sports include fishing, cricket, darts, gymnastics, and Japanese soccer matches. Moreover, it produces original content such as Change-Up, daily MLB commentary shows, The Weekly, etc.

Keep in mind that most of these alternatives are not accessible everywhere worldwide. You will need to spoof your location with a high-quality VPN service to access these platforms. 

Free streaming alternatives to StreamEast 

Many free alternatives to StreamEast exist today that provide similar features and exciting sports content. Some popular free sports streaming sites include;

SportSurge 

It is a great site to watch sports online. It updates active links frequently of a variety of sports, including football, MMA, boxing, tennis, etc.


Cricfree

Cricfree is a popular free streaming site with a minimalist interface. It has over 12 categories that allow you to choose sports according to your preference. Notably, it has an option to chat with fellow users worldwide. Also, it will give you access to popular sports channels like Sky Sports 1 and Sky Sports 2. 


FirstRowSports 

FirstRowSports is another safe substitute to StreamEast that offers free live sports streaming and TV shows. You must create an account before accessing the content. The site provides various sporting events like tennis, basketball, football, ice hockey, baseball, racing, snooker, etc. 


VIPLeague 

VIPLeague has a well-organized and minimalist interface that makes it easy to navigate the site. Also, you will access a wide range of sporting events. 


SportLemon 

This streaming site mainly concentrates on soccer, but it also shows other sports. You will be able to watch matches in real-time in HD without downloading any software or toolbars. 


CricHD

CricHD is a fantastic site to watch cricket matches and other sports. It hosts multiple sports channels like Sky Sports, Star Sports, beIN Sports, Willow Sports, etc. Besides cricket, the other sports content it airs includes motorsports, football, hockey, and the NBA. 


Conclusion 

StreamEast is a free sports streaming platform that allows you to watch various sporting events like soccer, basketball, tennis, cricket, golf, wrestling, etc. However, most of the content is copyrighted. So, you should first check your country’s laws before using StreamEast to avoid getting into trouble. Also, a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN can help you hide your streaming activities from your ISP and authorities. Besides, equipping your device with reputable antimalware will help you stay safe on StreamEast.

FAQs

Probably not. Like other free streaming services, StreamEast doesn’t employ sufficient security measures to keep you safe. So, malicious actors can take advantage of this and intercept your traffic to steal data or inject malware. 

StreamEast shows copyrighted content, which is illegal in most countries, and you can get on the wrong side of the law. So, first, check your local rules or consult a lawyer before using free streaming sites like StreamEast. 

The consequences of breaking copyright laws depend on your country’s stand on piracy. In countries that strictly prohibit pirating, you can get hefty fines or be imprisoned if you are caught streaming or downloading copyrighted content. 

Many StreamEast safe alternatives will give you access to a wide range of sporting content and more at a small fee. Some popular legal alternatives include ESPN, Peacock, Hulu, Peacock, YouTube TV, etc. However, most of them use geo-blocks, so you also need a VPN to access these services. 

The site is compatible with multiple devices such as smartphones, PCs, Amazon Firestick, tablets, Android Smart TV, etc. 

StreamEast is a free streaming site. Hence, you will be bombarded with many ads. Therefore, you will need to install an ad-blocker separately or use a VPN with an ad-blocker like NordVPN to protect your streaming experience. 

 

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About the Author

Ruheni Mathenge

Ruheni Mathenge

Cybersecurity editor
148 Posts

Tech researcher and writer with a passion for cybersecurity. Alex is a strong advocate of digital freedom and online privacy.

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