We can say that any account we have on the Internet can be targeted by hackers. For example, social networks, email, forums where we are registered… But there is something that is very interesting for cybercriminals: Streaming service accounts. We are talking about accounts such as Netflix, Prime Video or Disney +. In this article we are going to talk about how to know if any of these accounts have been hacked and what to do to avoid it.
How to detect streaming account theft
Cybercriminals can steal streaming accounts from platforms such as Netflix, Disney+ or Prime Video to put them up for sale on the Dark Web . That is where they sell stolen services of this type, as well as email accounts, bank cards, etc. They put these products on sale at a reduced price and make a profit.
To steal the accounts they can use different methods. For example, a Phishing attack, which basically consists of sending a false link through email or social networks. Also through keyloggers, which is a variety of malware that records passwords and everything we write. Another method is to simply brute force and log in if you use a weak password.
But how can we detect if our Netflix, Prime Video or Disney+ account has been stolen and be able to take action as soon as possible? In all three cases it is similar. The first thing logically is if you find that you cannot access the account. You put the corresponding data, but you cannot log in. That may mean that the access key has been stolen and changed.
Another option is to go to the Watched Video History or Recent Activity feature. You can do this if the password has not been changed and there are simply intruders but you still have control of the account. For Netflix, you can go to the Rewatch section. Perhaps you see a video that you have not seen and that may mean that someone has entered.
For Disney+, you can also see a list of devices that have connected under Recent Activity. Do you see any that do not correspond? That can certainly indicate that there has been some intrusion. Perhaps a cybercriminal has stolen your account and put it up for sale on the Dark Web. On Netflix and Prime Video it is similar.
What to do if the account has been stolen
You may have confirmed that someone has logged into your Streaming account. Maybe you have seen some strange device connected or you have seen some unplayed videos appear in the list. In that case you will have to take measures to solve the problem and not be left without an account.
One of the first steps is to sign out on all devices that may be active except yours. In this way you will be directly expelling other users who have been able to gain access to your account.
Subsequently, the next thing is to change the password . This is essential in case someone has stolen the password, since if you don’t change it, they will be able to enter again and again. Therefore, change the access key you have for Netflix, Disney + or Prime Video and put any other that is secure.
Another important point is to review the account data . For example, see the linked bank card, e-mail that you have assigned, etc. Have they been able to steal sensitive data, such as card data? In that case, you should block that card and thus avoid problems, since it could be used to make fraudulent payments on the Internet.
On the other hand, once you have changed the password and checked whether or not they have been able to steal certain personal data, it is convenient to know how they have been able to steal the password . Have you installed any programs recently? Have you logged in to an insecure computer or network? It is important to know what could have happened so as not to make the same mistake again.
How to avoid problems
After explaining how you can detect possible intruders in your Netflix, Disney + or Prime Video account, we are going to give some security recommendations to keep your accounts protected. This is important so that they do not enter your Streaming platforms again or prevent this from happening.
protect the account
One main thing is to properly protect the account. To do this you must use a password that is secure and prevents the entry of intruders. Use a password that has letters (both uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and other special symbols. Avoid passwords that you are already using elsewhere and never put words or digits that relate to you, such as your name or mobile number.
You can also enable two-step authentication, which helps create an extra layer of security. This will prevent an intruder from accessing the account even if they know what the password is. You would need a second step, which for example can be a code that you receive by SMS, to be able to enter the account.
Use only official apps
You should also keep in mind the importance of using only official programs . If you are going to install Netflix, Disney+, or Prime Video apps and want to avoid problems, download the software from official websites or legitimate app stores, such as Google Play, and avoid third-party sites.
Hackers can maliciously modify programs to steal data or sneak viruses into the system. Therefore, you should always install them from sources that are legitimate. It is true that you can also come across third-party applications that even have some interesting functions, but it can be dangerous.
Maintain system security
Of course, another tip is to keep your computer safe . Always use a good antivirus, such as Microsoft Defender itself, Avast or Bitdefender. This will help you detect malicious software and remove it before it inadvertently compromises your security.
It doesn’t matter what type of device or operating system you use, as in all cases you must maintain security. Avoid leaving the computer unprotected, as there are many varieties of malware that can steal the password of the Streaming account.
have everything updated
Another tip is to keep everything updated . In many cases hackers will exploit a security flaw they find. For example, if there is a vulnerability in the operating system, such as Windows, or in the Netflix, Disney+ or Prime Video application itself. There they could get to steal the key or have access.
Therefore, always update the equipment. In the case of Windows you have to go to Start, enter Settings and go to Windows Update . There you will see possible new versions that you will be able to install and avoid vulnerabilities.
Common sense
Finally, but probably the most important of all, is to maintain common sense and not make mistakes . Cybercriminals are often going to need you to do something wrong, to make a mistake. For example, downloading some file that they send you by mail and it turns out to be fake, installing some program that is not official or logging in from a fraudulent link.
To avoid problems of this type, the ideal is not to make mistakes. Avoid logging in from sites that may be insecure, do not open your account on public networks, be careful if you leave the account to another person, etc. Always avoid making any such mistake that exposes your personal data.
In short, as you have seen, it is possible to know if there are intruders in the Streaming account. It is important that you take action as soon as possible and also that you are protected so that hackers do not get into Netflix, Disney + or Prime Video. The goal is to achieve the maximum possible protection at all times.