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How to stay safe online when watching Netflix

Step 1: Stop giving your account info out to literally everyone.

netflix loading screen on laptop
Image: Unsplash

As it is pretty known nowadays, Netflix is one of the most popular subscription-based video streaming services in the world. It allows viewers to select a broad array of on-demand TV shows and movies.

One big advantage of watching videos on this platform is its ad-free campaign, meaning that users can binge watch content without interruptions from advertisements. Still, the convenience and ease of watching may leave you open to specific risks. Here are three ways to stay safe while viewing video content on this platform.

Use a VPN

One method to secure your safety while watching Netflix is to use a Virtual Private Network (VPN), an app or tool used to protect the privacy of Internet users. A few of its advantages include changing or hiding your IP address, encrypting data transfers and masking your current location.

For Netflix users, a VPN makes it difficult for other people in the network to scan for your IP address. It is an ideal tool to use while you are viewing Netflix on a public Wi-Fi connection, for example. This way, hackers trying to scan your device in public will not see your IP address, thereby making your private information safe.

Think about the younger generation when watching Netflix videos. Unrestricted access may let the platform suggest content unsuitable for younger audiences. Optimize the parental control settings to prevent R-rated movies and TV shows like the new show of Bear Grylls from popping up on the main page.

Optimize parental controls

Optimizing the parental controls of Netflix is also a good way of keeping you and your family from watching unsolicited and sensitive content. Here is how to do it:

  • Access your Netflix account from your computer or phone
  • Click on your profile at the top right corner. Then, select “Account”
  • In the new page, select “Parental Controls”
  • If you do not have a 4-digit PIN for this step, Netflix will ask you to create one. After creating the PIN, you can now select the age group for the restricted content
  • Press “Save”

Heighten the settings of your account’s parental controls to avoid random episodes and movies made for older audiences from appearing on the platform’s main screen.

Only share accounts with people you trust

Netflix allows multiple users to gain access to a single account. If you give your account details to your friend, they can watch shows as well. Remember, once you share your Netflix credentials, you now have limited control to what your associate, colleague, or friend does with it. The act might compromise your account if you are not careful.

If you are planning on sharing your Netflix account details with another person, make sure it is someone who you hold close to your heart. Another reason why you should not share your account information on the fly is if you are using the same credentials for other platforms.

For example, you may have the same username and password for your primary email address and Netflix account. If an acquaintance decides to share your Netflix information with other people, those folks might hack your email address.

Lastly, you can use the Netflix download feature to avoid using a public Wi-Fi connection at all. Download your favorite movies and TV shows on your device before leaving home. In doing so, you don’t have to use public Internet access to watch Netflix on-the-go.

What do you think? Have you ever had any issues with your Netflix account? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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