Netflix crackdown on password sharing
Netflix has finally implemented its long-awaited ban on password sharing in Latin America. The move is an attempt to boost subscriptions and revenue amid slowing interest in its streaming platform.
What are the rules for sharing passwords on Netflix?
According to Netflix’s rules, any account must be used by one household. It is allowed to have more than one person within a household, which is why it offers the “profiles” feature. However, it is not allowed for people to use an account associated with another home. In practice, Netflix defines home as “you and the people you live with.”
What does the restriction mean?
The new changes mean that Netflix will use a variety of tools to detect when people are using another household’s account and prevent them from doing so. They will check a device’s IP address and other identifiers to ensure usage patterns follow the rules. If detected, Netflix will stop that person accessing the account.
What are the options for people who share passwords?
Netflix offers two different options to people who have been sharing accounts. The first option is to “transfer a profile.” The person sharing the account can get their own new membership, which includes all watch history and other data. Secondly, they can “add an extra member” for the account, which essentially means that the person will stay on your account, but you will have to pay for it.
What about people who share their accounts?
If you’re the one lending the account, Netflix will not take action against you. However, it encourages users to verify who is using the account to prevent scolding for lending it out. The verification can be done by going to Netflix’s settings, which offers the option to sign out of any currently signed-in device and change the password so they can’t get back in.
What if I travel a lot?
If you use your account away from home, there is no reason to worry. You can still do that, but you may get some warnings from Netflix if you’re away for a long time. During the implementation phase, Netflix received feedback about people receiving warnings because they had been travelling, rather than sharing accounts. This issue has been addressed in the new version of the technology that monitors logins.
In conclusion, Netflix has implemented the long-awaited ban on password sharing in Latin America to boost subscriptions and revenue. To avoid being denied access to the platform, users are encouraged to only use Netflix in their household and avoid sharing passwords. For those that continue to share accounts, there are options to transfer profiles or add an extra member for the account. If you’re the one lending the account, there is no action taken against you although Netflix encourages you to verify who is using the account. Finally, if you use your account away from home, there is no reason to worry as you can still use the platform, but you may receive warnings from Netflix.
