VPN Detection: How Does Netflix Do It?
If you have been using Netflix for some time, you now know that not every Netflix movie is available for you to watch. This is mainly because of your region. If you are residing in Canada, for example, you can’t access Netflix shows exclusive to the US.
To bypass this, people use Virtual Private Networks (or VPNs for short). There are dozens of these VPNs right now in the market — some are even free. These VPNs can help you stream movies and series from another country’s content library. They make this possible through their thousands of servers in different countries.
But when Netflix detects that you’re using one, it will interrupt your stream.
Why Does Netflix Block VPNs?
Netflix blocks VPNs mainly because of territorial licensing. Because of licensing agreements, not all Netflix libraries are the same in every country.
Territorial Licensing
Regional or territorial licensing happens when owners sell their titles to streaming platforms. They give the rights based on a specific region or country, instead of opting for a universal license. The reason? Distributors find this more affordable and practical.
Distributors may change the price of their content. Factors like population and the volume of subscribers may change the price. Netflix has also produced its shows, known as Netflix Originals. Still, it cannot afford to show all its series and movies in every country.
If someone streams a show through a VPN, it does not contribute to the income of the distributors. This is the main reason why Netflix makes a great effort to determine subscribers who use VPNs.
So, How Does Netflix Detect VPNs?
Naturally, Netflix wants to protect its revenue. It uses different ways and tools to detect and block someone who is using a VPN to stream.
1. A Known or Shared IP Address
Say, for instance, you are using a VPN to watch Netflix. It is important to know you are not the only one who subscribed to that particular VPN service. There is a chance the VPN-provided IP address has been used by other subscribers too. It can make Netflix suspicious of your streaming activity.
In some circumstances, you may be even using a shared IP address. If there is an abnormal amount of traffic coming from your host address, the streaming service may think you are using a VPN.
If Netflix confirms this, it will tag those IP addresses as VPN-provided. They will be subject to blocking. This will most likely happen if you choose a VPN provider with a small number of servers and locations.
2. DNS and IP Address Inconsistencies
A mismatch in Domain Name Server (or DNS) locations is another way that Netflix detects your VPN use. Some VPN providers may hide your true IP address, but there can be a glitch in DNS.
Because of these inconsistencies between your IP address and your DNS, Netflix knows you’re using a VPN. You can avoid this by installing the VPN on your router rather than on your gadget or device.
3. Geolocation
Geolocation is simply the location of an IP address or GPS. When we connect to the Internet, your device renders an IP address, indicating your location. A sudden change in your geolocation can be a ground for Netflix to notice your VPN activity. The service will become skeptical if you change locations within minutes or hours.
For instance, you logged in from Japan then connected to a UK server in a matter of seconds. Netflix may detect this activity and block your stream. You will know this if Netflix shows an error alert saying, “You seem to be using an unblocker or proxy” on your screen.
What Happens If You Get Detected?
Now, what if Netflix catches you using a VPN? What happens next? Will it cancel your account? Will you pay a fine? Or will you undergo a legal process?
According to Netflix’s Terms of Service, you agree to access content that is available in your country or region only.
In another section, the terms say that you agree not to “circumvent, remove, alter, deactivate, degrade or thwart any of the content protections in the Netflix service.” You should not also “use any robot, spider, scraper or other automated means to access the Netflix service.” Doing so will prompt Netflix to terminate your account.
Netflix can cancel your subscription when you use VPNs to bypass restrictions. However, there are no reports about Netflix completely banning a user from its subscription because of VPN use. It would appear that Netflix is not as strict compared to other platforms.
And no, Netflix will not press legal charges against you or force you to pay a fine. The worst thing that could happen is an error message on your screen. The message will ask you to turn off any unblocker or proxy to continue watching.
What Does Netflix Say About VPN Use?
Back in 2014, Netflix was not yet available in Australia. Still, around 200,000 subscribers were able to use it because of VPNs. The streaming company caused an uproar in that region when it said it will block VPNs.
Something similar happened in 2016. Canadian subscribers complained over Netflix’s move to block any unauthorized service. This came after the streaming giant predicted a slower subscription rate for that quarter.
During that time, Canadians were only able to watch around 4,000 shows. This is a lot less compared to the 7,000 options provided in the US. It was the main reason why the majority of the country’s subscribers relied on VPNs to stream Netflix.
In the same year, Netflix Chief Executive Reed Hastings denied that the mandate will affect the business. “It’s a very small but quite vocal minority. It’s really inconsequential to us,” the Chief Executive said regarding VPN users.
Netflix is aware of subscribers using VPNs to access foreign content libraries. Even so, the company is confident it will not greatly affect its revenue.
Above All, Is It Still Safe To Use VPNs For Netflix?
Using a Virtual Private Network for Netflix streaming is perfectly safe. You will not go to jail for using one. But if streaming while using VPN does not work, you can try turning the VPN off and then back on again. In case this does not do the trick, try connecting to a different server. You can also choose one from the “Netflix” option if your VPN provider has that. You can opt to upgrade your VPN, too, if you haven’t yet.
Make sure that you upgrade and update your VPN as well. If you still have difficulties in troubleshooting, it is time to contact your VPN service’s customer support.
If none of these still work out for you, it is time to choose a different VPN provider. It is best to choose one that gives you a dedicated IP address. Through this, you will avoid using a shared host or an address that has been used multiple times.
Summary
In a nutshell, using VPNs will help you access geo-restricted movies and series you have wanted to watch for so long. Still, be aware that Netflix has territorial licensing for its content. This is the reason why the video-streaming company blocks VPNs.
Netflix has its way of identifying your VPN activity. They take note of your IP addresses, irregular traffic, and geolocation inconsistencies. Still, you can bypass its restrictions if you have a VPN with more servers and lets you choose a dedicated IP address.
If you get caught, the streaming platform will not press charges against you. It will not ban you from using your account again. But of course, you will not be able to continue your stream as long as you are connected to a VPN.
It is alright to use a VPN for Netflix. It is just a matter of VPN choice for uninterrupted and high-quality streaming.
