Online streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime are an increasingly popular way of catching up on the latest TV shows, yet many dodge paying for a subscription, according to new research.
Research carried out by the independent broadband and TV switching site Broadband Genie has revealed 25% of online streaming accounts in the UK are shared with friends and family.
Key findings include:
•1 in 4 admit to sharing their login information with friends, family and others
•Netflix passwords are most likely to be shared (50%)
•The majority of users (82%) aren’t afraid of being banned for sharing access to their account
Rob Hilborn, head of strategy at Broadband Genie, said: “Consumers are always looking for ways to save money, so it’s no surprise people are sharing their accounts to cut costs.
“The streaming providers don’t appear to be cracking down on those who’ve shared access and their terms and conditions are generally quite vague around this area, so for many consumers the risk is worth taking.”
Netflix account owners are the most likely sharers, with a massive 50% of users saying they use an account paid for by someone else.
Rob continued: “The high number of users willing to abuse these services also raises questions about the business model adopted by streaming firms: if consumers thought they were getting value for money, why would so many be willing to cheat the system?
“Streaming providers seem happy to allow account sharing while the services are growing and acquiring new customers but they will turn on those sharing accounts once subscription service sign-ups start to plateau.”
1,664 streamers from across the country were surveyed. The research was conducted online at the start of July 2015. The full data is available here.