Let’s face it: Sharing Netflix passwords is now as standard as hearing their famed entrance music or learning that your favorite original series has been canceled when it comes to streaming services.
Although technically forbidden, many users didn’t appear to mind until news of Netflix’s intention to start curbing the practice of password sharing surfaced last spring. At that point, some viewers naturally began to worry. Can anything as unassuming as sharing your Netflix login have legal ramifications? And using or sharing another person’s password for Netflix is honestly a federal offense? What you should know is as follows.
Is sharing your Netflix password a crime?
Yes, technically. Sharing online passwords is a crime that can be prosecuted per the Computer Fraud & Abuse Act, according to a 2016 US 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decision. At the time, the United States Supreme Court declined to hear the case, and streaming services were not explicitly addressed in any decision.
They're forcing people to stop password sharing while getting rid of the stuff that made people wanna share passwords in the first place.
Did Elon Musk buy Netflix, too? https://t.co/3PdH4McQre
— Drew-Zod (@TheGuardian07) January 6, 2023
The Netflix user agreement forbids sharing of passwords. However, it’s important to note that since the verdict, law enforcement has never actually brought charges against anyone for disclosing a streaming platform password.
Is Netflix trying to stop password sharing?
In a nutshell, Netflix isn’t giving you the go-ahead to share your password with everyone. In this era of such strict copyright laws and Intellectual Property Rights, the unauthorized sharing of passwords meant for personal usage could have serious repercussions. Also, sharing your password with unknown people is not advisable to save costs.
When NETFLIX officially ends PASSWORD SHARING pic.twitter.com/1x4MgF1MP6
— Sam Swank (@SlamminSamSwank) January 4, 2023
Although, this isn’t something new and is unlikely to stop in the future. With that being said, according to recent events, even if you are sharing your Netflix password, don’t be afraid of the FBI thinking it will give you a visit anytime soon. If there are any future developments or legislation regarding this, we will update you on the go.
