Disney+ Cracks Down on Password Sharing, Following Netflix's Lead

In response to the surge in digital content platforms, Disney+ has decided to curtail password sharing starting March 14, mirroring a recent move by Netflix. Amidst the popularity of platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+, the practice of sharing accounts with friends to save money has been widespread. Netflix’s crackdown on account sharing proved successful, boosting user numbers and revenue. Now, Disney+ is set to implement similar measures.

Despite Disney+ not officially announcing the crackdown, a recent email to Hulu users, also owned by The Walt Disney Company, indicated that limitations on sharing accounts outside of households would be added. Starting March 14, Disney+ users will no longer be able to share account passwords with friends or family in different households. The company plans to provide more information to users soon.

The email also includes a clause asserting Disney+’s right to analyze account usage for compliance. Violations may result in limitations or termination of access to the service.

While the identification of users sharing passwords is currently challenging, it is anticipated that Disney+ may implement a system similar to Netflix’s, blocking account sharing for devices not connecting from the same household for a specific period. This decision is prompted by Disney+’s $11 billion loss since its launch in November 2019, with expensive original content that hasn’t achieved the same popularity as before.