How does Netflix define a household and how does it check if you’re watching movies “at home”? We explain what the streaming giant’s current policy is, how its algorithms work and whether these restrictions can be bypassed.
Household by Netflix
Since Netflix introduced restrictions on sharing accounts, many people have started wondering: how do they even check this? They don’t have a camera on the TV to see who’s sitting on the couch, do they? In this article, we will try to explain what this household control is and what Netflix actually considers a “home”.
How does Netflix screen the household?
Netflix defines a household as a group of people using one account from the same place, or, simply put, one address. For simplicity’s sake (and probably a bit for your own convenience), Netflix defines “home” based on a Wi-Fi network. In short: if your TV, computer or phone connects to the same router, then everything is fine – you are one household.
This sounds quite logical, but what if someone in your family goes to study, works on a business trip or simply watches Netflix during a break from work? Well, Netflix probably won’t consider it individually. From the algorithm’s perspective – if you are not using your home Wi-Fi network, it means you are away from “home”.
How does Netflix check if you’re “at home”?
Netflix uses various techniques to determine whether a user actually belongs to a given household. Here are some key methods.
IP address
Each device connected to the Internet is assigned an IP address. It’s a bit like a car registration number – it allows you to identify where a call comes from. Netflix checks whether all devices using the account have a similar IP address. If a device from a completely different region suddenly appears, the system may react.
Device activity
Netflix also monitors devices that use your account. If different devices from different locations regularly log in to the same account, it may look suspicious. For example: one day you are watching a series in Warsaw, and the next someone logs into your account from Mumbai. The algorithms will quickly notice that something doesn’t fit here.
Wi-Fi network
This is a key element of the entire system. Netflix assumes that if your devices regularly connect to the same Wi-Fi, everything is fine. However, if the device starts using a different network (e.g. at a friend’s place or in a cafe), the system may send a verification request.
Is splitting your Netflix account a thing of the past?
In theory – yes. Netflix explicitly states that one account is to be used only within one household. In practice, however, not everything is so simple. If you are smart (and let’s face it, Poles have a talent for bypassing systems), there are still ways to bypass the restrictions. Here are some examples:
Share your password with your family
First the official way. Netflix has introduced the possibility of purchasing additional “slots” for people outside your household. The cost of the service is PLN 13 per month for each additional viewer. So you can pay a little more so that your sister or brother living in another city can legally use your account.
VPN
Using a VPN allows you to hide your real location. You can set your connection to appear as if you’re logging in from your home Wi-Fi network, even if you’re actually on the other side of the world. Note, however: Netflix actively combats VPNs, so it doesn’t always work.
Verification by the account owner
If Netflix detects unusual activity, it may ask you to verify your device. In practice, this means that the account owner receives a verification code that must be entered on the new device. If you are in constant contact with the person who shares the account with you, this is no problem.
Why did Netflix make these changes in the first place?
Let’s face it – it’s about money. At a time when every source of content monetization counts, Netflix has come to the conclusion that sharing accounts with people outside your household is a huge waste of potential customers. Instead of one fee per account, they could have multiple subscriptions if everyone had their own account.
Is this the end of the era of account sharing?
As you might expect, reactions were mixed. Some people understood Netflix’s decision and decided to adapt to the new rules by purchasing additional slots or creating separate accounts. Others, however, felt disappointed, especially since account sharing had been tolerated and common for years.
Are these changes good for us? It’s a matter of individual approach. One thing is certain – Netflix knows what you are doing when you sit on the couch with the remote control in your hand. And although they don’t have a camera on the TV (at least for now), a virtual “household guard” keeps watch.
