The rise of Dark web streaming after Netflix password sharing ban.

Netflix‘s Password Sharing Ban: Cybersecurity Implications and Unintended Consequences

Netflix, the world’s leading video streaming provider, finally took a step to crackdown on password sharing back in February 2021, when it implemented its new household policy in Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, and Spain to curb password sharing among subscribers. The policy, which prohibits users from sharing their passwords with anyone outside their households, was intended to boost Netflix‘s revenue and put a halt to credential hijacking by cybercriminals. However, data emerging since the policy change suggests that Netflix‘s move could have some unintended cybersecurity consequences.

Impact of Netflix‘s Password Sharing Ban on Viewership and Dark Web Streaming

Within the first month after Netflix‘s policy change, over one million Spanish subscribers cut the cord, and many other disillusioned viewers have reportedly been finding their streaming fix on the Dark Web. Check Point researchers found evidence that hackers have been promoting “full access” to Netflix for a mere 190 Indian rupees, approximately $2.30, to those who are unwilling to pay the extra subscription fee, or to those who have had their credentials compromised. Unfortunately, not only does subscribing to these illicit deals put users at risk of identity theft and malware infections, but users are also not guaranteed to get the advertised service as cybercriminals may not always uphold their end of the bargain.

The Emergence of Phishing Scams

Check Point’s research also highlights that cybercriminals have been taking advantage of the news around the Netflix story to launch social engineering attacks or phishing scams. Attackers send phishing emails that purport to be from Netflix, attempting to lure in unsuspecting users by warning them of an account suspension, an update requirement, or impending subscription expiration. They then trick users into visiting phishing websites that resemble the real Netflix portal, enticing them to share their Netflix account credentials and thereby handing over control of their accounts to the attackers. This practice represents a net negative for cybersecurity in general, putting users’ personal data and financial information at risk.

Lessons for Business-to-Consumer (B2C) Providers

This situation shows that making policy changes is not always a straightforward or predictable endeavor. While Netflix may have intended to protect its interests and users by implementing the password-sharing ban, cybercriminals have taken advantage of the situation to benefit themselves. As a result, there are important lessons to be learned for other B2C providers looking to strengthen their cybersecurity measures.

Firstly, businesses should expect unintended consequences and always strategize with an eye towards reducing risks. As shown in the Netflix example, cracking down on password sharing can become a double-edged sword if it drives users to seek alternatives, such as illegal streaming on the Dark Web, putting those same users at greater cybersecurity risk. Secondly, as we have seen with the Netflix phishing scams, businesses need to be proactive in protecting their customers from the predatory tactics of cybercriminals. This means offering consistent and timely communication about updates and changes, as well as preemptive cybersecurity education and training to empower users to spot and avoid social engineering attacks.

Conclusion: Balancing Policy Changes with Cybersecurity Risks

In conclusion, Netflix‘s password sharing ban has both positive and negative cybersecurity implications that businesses must take into account when making policy changes to strengthen their security posture. While reducing password sharing is an important measure in the fight against credential hijacking, it is essential to balance the risks with the benefits of the policy change and understand how users may respond. Where possible, businesses should prioritize educating and empowering their users to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from cyber threats, in order to mitigate the impact of any unintended consequences and preserve trust between the user and the business.