How can I ensure I'm legally accessing free comic books and not pirated content?

To ensure legality, always stick to well-known platforms and services that partner directly with publishers or are dedicated to creator-owned webcomics where artists willingly publish their work for free. Look for official websites, apps, or services that clearly state their licensing or partnership with publishers. If a site offers a vast library of brand-new releases for free without any clear revenue model or official affiliation, it's highly likely to be illegal and should be avoided.