Netflix tests new feature to limit password sharing
By Bryce Olin
If you’re using a Netflix account that you don’t pay for, also known as password sharing, you might be hearing from Netflix soon.
According to a report from Variety, GammaWire noticed some Netflix users noticed a message that warned them to stop using someone else’s Netflix account.
The report said the message read: “If you don’t live with the owner of this account, you need your own account to keep watching.”
It seems inevitable that this would happen at some point. What’s unclear is what Netflix is going to about password sharing next.
Is Netflix stopping password sharing?
From a business perspective, it’s clear that password sharing is a big deal for all these streaming services, Netflix included. We know far more people are watching original movies and shows on these platforms than those who pay for an account. That’s obvious.
What’s harder to separate is when the password sharing exists within one household, which is allowed, and when it extends beyond that. It seems Netflix is finally trying to eliminate the latter.
When a user gets a message like this, they are given options to verify the account or do so at a later date or time. Until you eventually verify your access on the account, you can’t resume watching movies and shows on Netflix.
So, yes, it does appear that Netflix is, in fact, starting to do something about password sharing. What’s also unclear is how this will be rolled out.
Netflix confirmed they are testing the feature now, according to the report. The feature is said to also help users secure their accounts from unauthorized access. I’ve heard stories about people being locked out of their Netflix account because an unauthorized user gains access and then changes the password.
We don’t know if this will be rolled out globally or what the timeline for that looks like. Netflix often tests new features and technology. Not every feature makes its way to everyone.
We’ll continue to update you on this developing situation with password sharing as we find out.