Netflix makes account sharing subject to a fee – a reversal of the previous regulation. Many customers are upset and vent their anger on social media.
Munich – Streaming films and series is now part of everyday life for most people. So far, this also included using the account on the go or sharing it with friends. The provider Netflix is now planning to change that and charge a surcharge for account sharing – to the annoyance of its customers. They’re upset and storming Reddit. Netflix used to write “Love is when you share a password” – for many users this “love story” now comes to an abrupt end.
Netflix customers storm Reddit over account sharing change: “North Koreaflix”
Many Netflix users are venting their anger on Reddit. Under contributions there are numerous comments on the subject of account sharing. “It’s like they want me to go back to piracy,” comments one user. Many others report that they have been Netflix customers for years but have now canceled their subscription. “I got the message in the US. I had a 4k plan but shared it with my immediate family. Quit and done.”
Not the only former Netflix customer in the comments column. “It happened to me in Ontario. We quit, and so did many others I know. I haven’t heard anything since.” Other comments are shorter and more drastic, with one user simply writing “North Koreaflix”. Even regular customers are turning their backs on the streaming service, as one Reddit user writes, “I quit after 15 years. I’ve been waiting for the wave of people and I think this is it!”
Netflix customers upset with paid account sharing – some want to cancel permanently
However, it remains to be seen how big the wave will be. Apparently, many Netflix customers have not yet received a notification from Netflix. Some users expect Netflix to be very thoughtful about its actions in order to keep its customers. A Reddit user wrote, “I use my sister’s Netflix and haven’t noticed anything yet. I suspect Netflix is being very careful in this regard so as not to upset a large number of its users.”
Another user calls for standing firm and not making a new account after termination so that Netflix receives a financial lesson from dissatisfied customers. “You must continue to remain terminated. In its comments to shareholders, Netflix stated that they expect and can absorb the cancellations in the short term. They just expect everyone to come back shortly after the “overreaction” – if that doesn’t happen, it hurts them financially.”
Additional Costs for Account Sharing on Netflix – Here’s How to “Bumpe People Away”
For some, however, the end of Netflix account sharing is just one of many problems. One of them is not the account itself, but the content. “Your catalog has gotten worse in my opinion. Most Netflix original shows are pretty bad. My parents are on my account if they get kicked out… I’m not sure I would keep the account to myself.”
“Shows and movies are so accessible these days, Netflix and others thrive on being ‘comfortable.’ When you start making customers less comfortable, you push people away.” The fact is, Netflix lost its monopoly on streaming long ago. Customers can also choose the offer that suits them best from other providers such as Disney+ or Amazon Prime. One user still finds the discussion exaggerated. And writes: “According to Redditors, Netflix should already be dead. As always, the Redditors are wrong.” It remains to be seen what medium to long-term consequences the end of free account sharing will have for Netflix customers. (kiba)