Netflix aims to curb password sharing with new test

Netflix is testing a new feature through which it aims to curb password sharing. The new feature, currently showing up for Netflix on TV, prevents people from accessing the platform if they’re not the authorised owner of the account.

The new Netflix feature was first spotted by GammaWire, displaying a message telling the unauthorised user to open their own Netflix account. The message has a warning that reads, “If you don’t live with the owner of this account, you need your own account to keep watching.” It also requires users to verify their Netflix account through a code sent via email or text. Users will have a certain timeframe to verify the account or they’ll have to create a new one to continue watching Netflix.

Netflix confirmed the test to The Verge saying, “This test is designed to help ensure that people using Netflix accounts are authorized to do so.”

How Netflix determines who is authorised to use the account is a bit confusing. According to Netflix’s terms of service, the platform is only “for your personal and non-commercial use only and may not be shared with individuals beyond your household.” It’s not clear how exactly Netflix determines a “household” given the fact that people not living in the same house could be sharing a family plan.

Netflix does have limitations on its subscription plans but nothing of this sort has happened so far. It doesn’t restrict the number of devices your Netflix account is logged into but it does limit streaming to only one device, two devices or four devices depending on the plan. It’s interesting to see how exactly this feature will pan out among users.