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In 2024, Disney+ implemented a strict policy against password sharing, limiting users to accessing their accounts from their homes or through an “Away” exception that allows limited off-site viewing. However, this new restriction has triggered significant trouble for some subscribers, who are experiencing a frustrating glitch that mistakenly identifies them as being away from home when they are not.
As complaints mount, some users have reported being logged out of their accounts despite connecting to their home Wi-Fi. This has led to a wave of dissatisfaction, with many subscribers threatening to cancel their subscriptions unless the issue is swiftly addressed.
For the majority of Disney+ users, the glitch is not an immediate concern, but for those affected, the issue has sparked extensive discussion on platforms like Reddit’s Disney+ page. Users have reported encountering messages on-screen stating, “You’ve used all your ‘I’m Away’ requests.” The “I’m Away” feature is intended to provide access for subscribers who log in while traveling, but the error persists even when users are home. Additionally, customers moving to new addresses are finding it difficult to update their accounts. One user expressed frustration, recounting, “I moved house 4 months ago and 2-3 times a week I get these messages. I keep clicking update household, and when that stops working, I use the ‘I’m away’ option, and when that too fails, I contact Disney+. Each time they promise a fix, but it always returns, putting me in a frustrating cycle.”
The ongoing nature of this issue has understandably led to significant frustration among subscribers who expect resolution from Disney+. Still, the company has yet to publicly clarify the reasons behind the error. Despite efforts from their tech team to find a solution, the complaints continue, with subscribers vocal about their dissatisfaction over being involuntarily logged out.
Password Sharing Crackdowns Became Common in 2024
The crackdown on password sharing has become a prevalent trend across various streaming platforms, with numerous companies introducing measures that restrict account sharing to individuals living in the same household. Following the implementation of these measures, Netflix reported a surge in subscriber numbers, despite previous warnings from consumers expressing their concerns about the new restrictions.
Notably, many families have expressed their frustrations over the limitations that prevent them from watching content while away from home, especially parents with young children. As a result, some streaming services still offer a limited exception for viewing as long as users access content within a specific timeframe connected to their home internet network.
While technology-related issues like glitches are not uncommon, this incident highlights ongoing consumer dissatisfaction with Disney+’s handling of password sharing restrictions. Critics argue that the service is marketed towards families, yet the measures inhibit their ability to enjoy content when traveling or away from home. One parent noted: “It’s really annoying when Disney Plus is aimed at families but presents issues when the kids are at Grandma’s and want to watch their favorite shows.”
Although many subscribers may share similar sentiments, it appears that streaming services remain steadfast in enforcing password-sharing policies. From the companies’ perspective, the rules are clear: if subscribers wish to watch content, they must comply. While this approach may not align with consumer preferences, the steady subscriber growth indicates that this issue is unlikely to lead to any significant policy changes or declines in viewership.
Source
movieweb.com