In July of this year, Netflix implemented a policy preventing users in India from sharing passwords outside their households, and now Disney is adopting a similar approach
Many people have become accustomed to using various OTT (Over-the-Top) services without actually paying for them. This practice has been prevalent for quite some time, dating back to the rise of OTT platforms as a popular choice for content consumption in India. However, companies are now taking measures to curb this practice. In July of this year, Netflix implemented a policy in India that prohibits users from sharing their passwords outside of their households. Disney is now following suit.
Disney+, a widely popular OTT platform, is urging users in Canada not to share their passwords outside of their household.
Disney+ Implements Password Sharing Restrictions for Users Starting from November 1, users in Canada will no longer have the option to share their passwords with individuals outside their household. This change was communicated through an email sent to Disney+ subscribers in Canada.
The email stated, “We’re implementing restrictions on your ability to share your account or login credentials outside of your household,” according to a report by The Verge. Additionally, the updated help center of the company now includes the statement, “You may not share your subscription outside of your household.”
What will happen to users who do not comply with these restrictions? Their accounts could either be limited or terminated altogether. A new section called “Account Sharing” in the Canadian subscriber agreement outlines that the company may begin analyzing users’ account usage. If users do not adhere to the new guidelines, their accounts may face restrictions or termination.
Impact on Indian Users Will Indian users be affected by this change? Currently, it appears that only Canadian subscribers are prohibited from sharing passwords. However, in the future, Disney may decide to extend these restrictions to other countries as well.
It’s worth noting that Netflix also initiated its crackdown on password sharing in select countries before expanding its efforts. Disney may adopt a similar approach, gradually introducing guidelines for other countries.
In a blog post announcing its crackdown on password sharing for Indian users, Netflix stated, “Starting today, we will be sending this email to members who are sharing Netflix outside their household in India. 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 like Transfer Profile and Manage Access and Devices.
“We recognize that our members have many entertainment choices. It is why we continue to invest heavily in a wide variety of new films and TV shows — so whatever your taste, mood, or language and whoever you are watching with, there is always something satisfying to watch on Netflix.
