Netflix Enforces Password Sharing Rules in US and UK

Over the last few months, there have been rumblings and speculation about global streaming giant Netflix and when it would clamp down on U.S. users sharing passwords. Earlier this year, several countries in Latin America and Spain encountered the roadblock, noticing additional charges for the transgression. However, with very little fanfare, it seems that the tight restrictions are now targeting American and British Netflix users who participating in password sharing.

In the know: learn how Netflix lost a million subscribers over its password policing in Spain.

A Crack in the Stream

Netflix has been warning subscribers for some time that password sharing is against the streaming service’s terms and conditions. Initially, it turned a blind eye, then more recently, it announced plans to tackle the problem, starting with a trial run in several Latin American countries.

When Netflix detected logins that weren’t part of the household, it charged the account holder an additional $6 on top of the regular monthly fee. In some cases, this almost doubled the monthly subscription fee, leading many to cancel their service. Netflix’s actions were mostly contained to Latin America and a few other European countries. But in a recent business update, the changes are already activated in the U.K. and U.S. markets.

“Your Netflix account is for you and the people you live with – your household,” opens the stern email sent to identified password sharers. The email explains what subscribers can do to fix the situation, which includes transferring a profile or paying the additional $7.99 fee. 

“Starting today, we will be sending this email to members who are sharing Netflix outside their household in the United States. A Netflix account is for use by one household,” reads a Netflix press release. A similar email was sent to U.K. subscribers. 

There is a caveat, though. At the bottom of the email, in a tiny font, it explains that “Extra Member (is) currently unavailable for members billed through our partners.” That means you can’t do that if you pay for your Netflix subscription through a third-party, such as a streaming device or as part of an entertainment bundle.

Tip: read on for more information about Netflix cracking down on password sharing.

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