In 2019 a huge black market of hacked streaming service accounts started to be sold online. With Netflix being one of the largest it has also become one of the most popular targets of hacking.
So, what is happening here? How do hackers get your password and username? Let’s take a look and then we will explain how you can find out if this is happening to you.
What is happening?
Hackers recently have found it extremely profitable to sell stolen usernames and passwords for services like Netflix. With very little risk, hackers have found they can get access to thousands of accounts quickly and sell them for a few bucks each, which may not sound like a lot but when you are selling thousands of them it adds up.
How do hackers get your username and password?
Often people are quick to blame the service for the hack, but typically the hack has nothing to do with breaking the security of Netflix.
There are a few main ways that hackers get your username and password. First, they break into a smaller site with weaker security and you happen to have used the same username and password on both Netflix and that other site. So, it is important that you don’t use the same password on every site.
The other way hackers are getting your username and password is by sending you fake emails asking you to sign into your Netflix account. These emails look official, but they are an attempt to hand over your username and password.
So, to protect yourself don’t use your username and password that go to services you pay for on random sites. Also be careful of emails asking you to sign in to change your password.
How to know if you have been hacked?
Wondering if you are already a victim and someone is using your Netflix account? Good news! Netflix makes it easy to find out. Netflix tracks everyone who uses your account and where they are from. All you have to do is go into the Streaming Activity section of your account settings inside your Netflix account. There, you will be able to see if people from other states are using your Netflix account.
If your account has been hacked, make sure to change your username and password. Also think about using a different username and password for services you pay for.
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