Streaming services are one of the most popular ways to consume content. Most of us rely on them to listen to music, watch movies, or follow the latest sports events. The numbers don’t lie – 83% of households in the US are subscribed to one or more streaming services.
Streaming content online isn’t exactly risk-free. Threats can include phishing attacks, data breaches, and account takeovers. The last streaming service to be hacked was Roku, with over 15,000 accounts being sold at 50 cents a pop.
However, the good news is that protecting yourself isn’t difficult. This guide will walk you through the most common cybersecurity risks and how to stay safe while streaming, such as opting out from data brokers and installing a VPN.
Convenience of Streaming Services
The main advantage of subscribing to a streaming service is convenience. There’s nothing like accessing all your favorite content on one platform. They’re the ultimate on-demand resource for millions of Americans.
Streaming services are constantly improving their catalog, resulting in massive viewerships. The latest engagement report shows that Netflix’s portfolio of over 18,000 titles was watched for nearly 100 billion hours. Prime Video reigns with over 25,000 titles, though.
Affordability also plays a huge role. Most streaming services in the US only cost a few dollars, the cheapest being Peacock and Paramount+. Both platforms’ ad-supported plans start at $5.99 a month.\
Cybersecurity Risks of Streaming Services
Despite their security measures, streaming content isn’t risk-free. Check out some of the most common cybersecurity risks of streaming platforms:
- Account takeovers (ATO) – Hackers may impersonate the platform’s staff via email (phishing) to try and steal your login details.
- Data breaches – Streaming services’ servers might be hacked, and your information might end up on the dark web.
- Malicious content – Hackers may create similar-looking platforms to install malware on your device.
- Unsecured connections – Public Wi-Fi networks expose your device to everyone in the same network, which can compromise your system.
Protecting Yourself While Streaming
Tips can take you a long way. Here are a few ways to keep yourself safe while streaming content online:
- Use a strong and unique password – A complex password is always harder to crack. Using different passwords can prevent your other account from being compromised.
- Two-factor authentication – Activating two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of safety. You must enter a unique code received via SMS to access your account.
- Connect to a secure Wi-Fi network – Password-protect Wi-Fi networks are harder to access. Alternatively, you can install a Virtual Private Network (VPN) service to mask your IP address.
- Pay attention to phishing scams – Always double-check if emails and links are legitimate. Streaming services will never ask for your password.
- Opt out from data brokers – Visit data brokers and click the opt-out link. You can also use automated tools to do this.
To Close Off
Streaming content is fun and convenient but can pose a security risk. Prioritizing your safety is crucial to ensure a stress-free experience. All it takes is a few good habits to prevent your account from being accessed by unauthorized third parties. Remember to follow our tips and change your password regularly.
