When Does Streaming Become Stealing?

You’re not supposed to do it, but lots of people share an id and password for a subscription streaming service. Netflix, Hulu, HBO and others don’t seem to mind….at least not yet. Check out this story, which shows just how common it is for people to access streaming content using others’ passwords — and how different subscription services view the practice.

What does your family think about sharing streaming passwords? Talk about it at the dinner table with these conversation starters:

• Have you ever used someone else’s subscription (not in your household) to watch streaming TV? If yes, why do you think that’s OK?
• If you were producing and selling a product, wouldn’t you want to be paid for it? What do you think about the executive in the story who says it’s more important to him that young people make a habit of using his product than pay for it?
• You may subscribe to a magazine or newspaper and share it with a friend. No one ever said that wasn’t ethical. Do you think there’s a difference? Why or why not?
• If you do access streaming content using someone else’s account, would you subscribe if the company cuts you off?
• If you subscribe to Netflix and a friend asks to use your id and password, would you say yes? Do you think it’s okay for them to ask? Why or why not?