Netflix has threatened to crack down on password sharing for some time, and it is now taking steps to deter people from using the same accounts. The new protocol will mean that users can’t access the service with a VPN, and this may disappoint a lot of customers.
During a time when Netflix faces serious competition from the likes of HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video, this could be a bad move for the company.
Passwords Now an Outdated Form of Security
Most internet users would agree that passwords are an outdated form of security, but new technology hasn’t been able to render them obsolete just yet. Netflix still has to use passwords as a quick way for people to access the service. The company can’t really introduce two-factor authentication, as this would remove the instant nature of the platform that people love.
Research into passwords shows how there are some weak ones floating about, and part of this could be due to password sharing and the need for options that are easy to remember. For example, an infographic from ExpressVPN highlights the fact that there are common passwords in every country, with “123456” being one of the most popular passwords used around the world. Evidently, generic and easily hacked passwords are an issue around the world across many cultures. ExpressVPN advises the use of strong passwords that combine letters, numbers, and symbols, and states that poor ones are the reason behind mass data breaches online. In the digital era, it’s more important now than ever before to improve security online in order to prevent sensitive and private data from being exploited.
Netflix clearly needs to move on to a more modern approach with passwords, such as biometrics. However, this doesn’t appear to be coming any time soon. That’s why it’s decided to introduce a new algorithm to stop password sharing.
Netflix Trying to Stop People Sharing Accounts
According to a report from Fox Business, Netflix will start rolling out an “add a home” option, which means people who use an account from two different locations will need to pay extra. The company will track IP addresses on Netflix accounts. If it detects unusual activity that’s indicative of password sharing, it will lock password abusing devices out of the service.
Around one-third of people in the USA share Netflix passwords, according to a report in Deadline. This costs the company billions of dollars in lost revenue, so it is right to attempt to eradicate the problem. However, it may be going about it the wrong way, as the new system will mean that people can’t access the platform using a VPN.
One of the most popular ways to use Netflix is to access the site with a VPN and change the IP address to different regions. This is because countries around the world offer slightly different programming. Something that’s available in the UK may not be in the USA, and vice versa. If people continue to do this, the algorithm may suspect them of password sharing and block their devices.
Some customers may not be able to afford Netflix, which is why they turn to password sharing. A better option could have been to bring about new payment levels, perhaps with some advertising involved for cheap memberships. Many customers will be disappointed with the rule change and could be forced to move to other platforms. Overall, there are various reasons that Netflix may go on to regret this move, but all we can do is wait to see the full extent of the impact.
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