Netflix introduces new password sharing rules – here’s how to avoid extra fees

Netflix has finally begun to introduce a long-awaited crackdown on 'password sharing', in a bid to get more people paying for its subscription service.

On a call to shareholders last week, the streaming giant outlined how its new measures will work.

Netflix subscribers will have the option to pay extra money every month if they want to share their account with people they don't live with.

Meanwhile, people who use accounts they don't pay for (secretly or not) will be made to log in on their device using the account holder's home WiFi network once every 31 days⁠—or their account could be blocked.

Netflix has claimed that members will still be able to watch shows and films while travelling, although it's not clear how this will work in practice if users have to login at home every month.

If you're someone whose account is being shared⁠—perhaps by an ex who held onto your password⁠—you'll also have the option to boot them off of your account.

A new tool on Netflix allows you to see all the places you're logged in around the world. Just open the Netflix app or website, head to Settings, and then hit 'Manage Access and Devices'.

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From here, you'll be able to boot people off of your account with the tap of a button.

The new rules come as part of a major shakeup at Netflix, which saw subscriber numbers drop for the first time last year.

Executives at the company believe password sharing is partly to blame. Last year, the firm said: "Today's widespread account sharing (100M+ households) undermines our long term ability to invest in and improve Netflix, as well as build our business."

Netflix also said: "As we roll out paid sharing, members in many countries will also have the option to pay extra if they want to share Netflix with people they don't live with."

It's not clear yet exactly how much paid sharing will cost per month, but in trials in South America, the firm charged a $3 monthly additional fee.

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