10 Streaming Services That Don’t Care About Sharing Passwords (And Three That Do)

While Netflix led the push against password sharing in 2023 and Disney+ followed suit in 2024, many streaming platforms still allow subscribers to share their accounts freely. Here’s your comprehensive guide to where you can continue to share your credentials – and where you can’t.

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THE STRICT:

Netflix pioneered the crackdown in May 2023, demanding additional payments for users outside of the primary household. The strategy proved effective: daily signups even exceeded the COVID-19 lockdown surge in March 2020.

Hulu joined the restrictions movement on March 14, 2024, banning account sharing outside of households. The service now defines a household as “the collection of devices connected to your primary private residence and used by the people living there,” with possible account restrictions or termination for violations.

Disney+ joined the restrictions bandwagon in September 2024, introducing new rules in several regions including the US, UK, Canada and parts of Europe and Asia Pacific. For “Extra Member” profiles, the service now charges between $3.99 and $9.99 per month, depending on subscription level and region.

Max (formerly HBO Max) is next in line, with plans to begin “very soft messaging” on account sharing in December 2024 and ramp up enforcement through 2025 and 2026.

THE SHARED:

Not only does Prime Video allow password sharing, but it also openly mocks Netflix’s restrictions. The service allows streaming on three devices simultaneously, granting access to the entire Amazon account by sharing login details.

(RELATED: Netflix co-CEO advocates crackdown on password sharing to spur growth)

Apple TV+ offers generous sharing options with six simultaneous streams, but it comes with one caveat: your Apple TV+ login is tied to your Apple ID, which requires absolute trust in the sharing partners.

Paramount+ is characterized by its relaxed approach, without explicit restrictions in the terms of use. Users can create up to six profiles and stream on three devices simultaneously.

Although Peacock technically discourages password sharing in its terms, it does not enforce any restrictions. The service allows three simultaneous streams and multiple user profiles.

Niche Services with Exchange-Friendly Policies:

Several dedicated streaming services have liberal sharing policies. The Criterion Channel is aimed at lovers of classic cinema and allows unlimited password sharing. Arrow, which specializes in horror and cult films, offers similar flexibility for $6.99 per month.

Shudder, AMC’s horror-focused streaming service, takes a relaxed approach to password sharing. Although they officially advise against it in their terms of service, they have not introduced any technical barriers. Horror fans are free to share their accounts with other enthusiasts until policy changes are announced.

Mubi focuses on independent and arthouse films and allows sharing with up to five users, although only two can stream at the same time. The platform particularly appeals to viewers who are looking for unique and lesser-known films.

LIVE TV STREAMING LANDSCAPE:

Live TV streaming services generally apply stricter policies, but some remain flexible. Sling TV proves to be the most sharing-friendly option as it allows three simultaneous streams on the Blue plan, regardless of location.

FuboTV allows sharing, but limits on-the-go use to mobile devices. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV introduce stricter controls that require monthly home location verification or limit external viewing to mobile devices.

THE FUTURE OF SHARING:

Industry experts say more services could follow Netflix’s lead, especially given the success of its restrictions. However, smaller platforms may be reluctant to implement such measures because they lack the market power of larger services.

For cost-conscious viewers, alternatives to password sharing include changing monthly subscriptions based on viewing preferences, using free ad-supported services, and taking advantage of bundle offers through mobile carriers or other service providers.

As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, the window for unrestricted password sharing may be closing. However, for now, numerous platforms still offer ways to share streaming wealth with family and friends – regardless of whether they officially endorse it or not.