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Netflix Cracking Down On Password Sharing In New Test

Netflix has rolled out a test to crack down on password sharing. Spotted by Gamma Wire, viewers who are attempting to use somebody else’s account will receive a warning screen.

The warning screen reads: “If you don’t live with the owner of this account, you need your own account to keep watching.”

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At the moment, only a small number of users are impacted by the test. When met with the warning, uses are also required to verify their ownership with a verification code. Users also have the option to verify later.

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“This test is designed to help ensure that people using Netflix accounts are authorized to do so,” a Netflix spokesperson said.

Sharing passwords is a common practice across many streaming services. Netflix CEO Reed Hastings even declared in 2016 that password sharing is a norm “because there’s so much legitimate password sharing – like you sharing with your spouse, with your kids … so there’s no bright line, and we’re doing fine as is.”

The crackdown on password sharing may potentially represent a new strategy shift by Netflix. Time will tell if this test will expand or become a permanent feature.

With other competitors like Disney+ and HBO Max gaining popularity, especially with the former recently topping 100 million subscribers, Netflix has to tread very carefully. Upset the customers, and they might jump ship.