Netflix begins expensive password-sharing crackdown in UK
Netflix has launched its account and password sharing crackdown in the UK.
The long-threatened rollout is finally starting, and the streaming platform has since warned Brits who are sharing Netflix accounts that they will no longer be permitted to do so.
Gone are the golden days of multiple users being able to have a good old-fashioned Netflix and chill on the same account as members will now be encouraged to 'transfer a profile' or 'buy an extra member' at an added cost.
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After the binge-worthy bliss of everyone getting away with sharing Netflix passwords since it first entered our lives in 2007 - the tech giant has made some very big changes.
Much to the dismay of all the siblings, mates and exes so used to using other people's accounts free of charge, it's clear the days of free streaming on the platform have finally come to an end.
On 23 May, Netflix released an official statement on the matter titled 'Update on Sharing'.
It reads: "Starting today, we will be sending this email to members who are sharing Netflix outside their household in the United Kingdom."
Attached to the official statement was the email template, which has only been sent to members suspected of currently sharing their accounts.
The email explains: "Your Netflix account is for you and the people you live with – your household."
It went on to assure users that the anti-password sharing crackdown will not apply to those who are using their account for travel.
"You can easily watch Netflix on the go and when you travel – either on your personal devices or a TV at a hotel or holiday home," the email outlines.
The statement reiterated: "A Netflix account is for use by one household. Everyone living in that household can use Netflix wherever they are – at home, on the go, on holiday – and take advantage of new features."
In short, if you're wanting to share your account, Netflix states members can do one of two things regarding their 'new features'.
They can either 'Transfer A Profile' which lets users move a watching profile - which transfers recommendations, viewing history, My List, saved games, settings and more - to a new membership paid for by someone else or they can 'Buy An Extra Member' for an additional $7.99/£4.99 per month for each new member.
If you choose the latter, the 'extra member" will receive their own account and password.
Users who have received the email have been encouraged to control how their account is used by booting out devices that 'shouldn't have your password'.
Ouch.
They have also been advised to 'consider changing your password' if they suspect signs of account-sharing antics.
The statement concluded: "We recognise that our members have many entertainment choices. It’s why we continue to invest heavily in a wide variety of new films and TV programmes.
"So whatever your taste, mood or language and whoever you’re watching with, there’s always something satisfying to watch on Netflix."
Well, it's certainly the end of a glorious era.
Topics: UK News, Netflix, TV and Film
Rhiannon Ingle