Password sharing has long been a thorn in the side of Netflix and other streaming services, as it allows multiple users to access the platform using just one set of login details. This practice has become increasingly common in recent years, with many people sharing passwords with friends and family members to save money.

Earlier this week. the company announced that users who are caught sharing their passwords would be asked to upgrade their account to a premium plan that supports multiple streams. The backlash to this announcement was swift and fierce, with many subscribers taking to social media to complain about the new rules, pointing out that students who live outside their parents’ home, as well as for those who are traveling, are going to be severely restricted by the move.

The following day, the company backpeddled, saying that the announcement was a mistake, and that it does not have any plans to block devices outside of subscribers’ homes. According to a statement from Netflix, the company “errantly posted a message” on its website regarding the rules around password sharing, which was later removed.

This error by Netflix highlights the sensitivity around the issue of password sharing, which has become increasingly common among its users. While sharing passwords is technically a violation of the company’s terms of service, it is widely tolerated and has become a common way for people to save money on their monthly streaming subscriptions.

Despite this announcement, it remains unclear what Netflix’s stance on password sharing will be in the future. The company has previously stated that it does not enforce its password sharing rules, and that it is focused on expanding its user base rather than cracking down on password sharing. However, with the rise of competitors in the streaming market, it is possible that Netflix may take a more aggressive stance in the future to protect its content and maintain its revenue stream.