Netflix may be cracking down on password sharing in the near future.
The streaming giant is testing a new policy with select customers that prompts them to sign up for a separate account if they aren’t watching with the subscriber.
Per The Streamable, users have encountered a message that reads: "If you don’t live with the owner of this account, you need your own account to keep watching.”
However, if you rely on your friends or family members to binge-watch the latest shows and movies, you don’t have to worry just yet.
TODAY reports that a Netflix spokesperson revealed that this is one of the "hundreds" of tests the streamer runs and it might not lead to an overall crackdown on password sharing.
“This test is designed to help ensure that people using Netflix accounts are authorized to do so,” Netflix said in a statement, adding that it could be more geared towards account security.
If Netflix were to take a stricter stance on password sharing, it would affect about 33% of Netflix users who share their password with at least one other person, according to research firm Magid.
Related
Previously, Netflix turned a blind eye to password sharing as it didn’t cut into revenue too much. But according to CNBC, shares have been underperforming as Netflix continues to gain competition with an influx of streaming services.
In October, the company also announced it would be raising the prices of its standard and premium plans in the United States.
The standard plan, which allows subscribers to view content in high-definition on two screens, will increase by $1 from $12.99 to $13.99 per month.
The premium plan, which lets subscribers view content on four screens in Ultra-HD and currently costs $15.99 a month, will increase by $2 to $17.99 per month.
Netflix’s basic plan, which includes a single screen of non-HD content, will remain unchanged at $8.99 monthly.
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