Netflix raised the rates of its plans in the United States first, and then in the United Kingdom and Ireland earlier this month. The firm has revealed that it is attempting to eliminate password sharing on the platform, which is more prevalent than having a Netflix membership. Netflix has declared that it will tighten down on the common practice of exchanging passwords between people who do not reside in the same home. According to a blog post, the corporation intends to charge customers who exchange passwords a fee for the privilege.

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“With features like separate profiles and multiple streams in our Standard and Premium plans, we’ve always made it simple for those who live together to share their Netflix account.  While they have proven to be quite popular, they have also caused some misunderstanding regarding when and how Netflix may be shared. As a result, accounts are being shared across families, limiting Netflix’s capacity to invest in fantastic new TV and films for its users,” according to Chengyi Long, Netflix’s head of product innovation, in a blog post.

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Netflix has started a test in three countries: Peru, Costa Rica, and Chile. Subscribers will be prompted to add an extra viewer to their plan for a reduced price of CLP 2,380 (approximately Rs 230), $2.99 (about Rs 230) in Costa Rica, and PEN 7.9 (roughly Rs 160) in Peru. Subscribers to the Basic, Standard, and Premium plans may allow others who share their account to move their profile information to a new account or an Extra Member sub-account while retaining their viewing history, My List, and personalised recommendations. Netflix has not stated how long it intends to conduct this test before expanding it.

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Here are some reactions towards the streaming giant’s move:

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This isn’t the company’s first attempt to stop password sharing with individuals who aren’t subscribers. Last year, Netflix tested an Account Verification tool to prevent unauthorised users from accessing other people’s Netflix accounts. The increased price, on the other hand, represents a more planned plan of attack from the streaming giant. With this, the corporation can continue to increase its subscriber base, which has been stagnant in recent months.