Netflix said this week that it is testing a new verification process to combat password sharing on its streaming platform.
For users who the company suspects are not the account owner, Netflix will send a verification code by email or text message to the account owner. If the user does not enter the code within a certain time frame, they will not be able to view content through that account.
“This test is designed to ensure that people using Netflix accounts are authorized to do so,” said a Netflix spokesperson told The edge.
One uncertainty with the new feature is who is considered a household user, as Netflix allows password sharing among family members, meaning it’s not clear whether family members will also need to go through the verification process. The company has not said how long the test will take.
The Hill has reached out to Netflix for comment.
In addition to password sharing concerns, Netflix said the new verification process is designed to protect against hackers.
The news about the extra security barrier comes after Netflix announced that it will produce 70 films this year.
Netflix has more than 200 million subscribers worldwide, with streaming services in almost every country.