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Disney+ recently announced plans to restrict account access for users sharing login credentials outside their households. The idea is to increase the subscriber count after growing concerns about revenue loss when there is widespread password sharing across streaming services.
If you’ve been locked out of Disney+, the best VPNs can help you bypass the password-sharing crackdown. NordVPN’s Meshnet allows you to set up a virtual LAN connection so it appears as if you are accessing the streaming platform from the household, preventing Disney+ from blocking your connection.
Today, we'll cover how the ban works, how VPNs can bypass these restrictions, and what to do if your VPN doesn’t work with Disney+.
How does the Disney+ password-sharing ban work?
Disney+'s password-sharing ban, similar to Netflix’s ban, aims to limit account access to only users within the same house. The platform tracks IP addresses and device locations to determine whether login attempts come from a location other than the account holder's primary residence.
If Disney+ detects that the account is accessed outside the household, it may limit or terminate it. Family members living in separate homes will have to create profiles through the “extra member” feature, which may cost an additional fee. However, this extra member feature only works if you are in the same country as the account owner.
The Disney+ CEO, Bob Iger, enacted this password-sharing crackdown in an attempt to restrict improper sharing and to generate more subscribers for their streaming business. While these additional usage rules are frustrating, especially for families that live in different houses and don’t want to pay for an extra member profile, there is a way for account holders to bypass these password-sharing rules.
How to bypass the Disney+ password-sharing crackdown
The best VPNs for Disney+ will allow you to access the platform and bypass password-sharing restrictions. However, you’ll need a provider that offers a virtual LAN feature, such as NordVPN’s Meshnet technology.
Meshnet will enable you to link up with any device globally if both have Meshnet and the other device approves your connection request. NordVPN allows you to link up to 10 devices from your Meshnet account to up to 50 devices outside your network.
To set up NordVPN’s Meshnet, follow these steps.
- Download and install NordVPN. You’ll need the app for your home device and one you’ll use for streaming.
- Log in with the same credentials on both devices.
- Switch on Meshnet on your home device.
- Tap “Link devices” and send an invite link on the device outside of your household.
- Enjoy streaming! You should have bypassed the password-sharing crackdown.
Why you need a VPN with Disney+
Using a VPN with Disney+ offers several benefits beyond bypassing the new extra member feature. Below are some key advantages of using a VPN while streaming on Disney+ and other streaming services.
- Extra online safety: A VPN encrypts your internet connection, ensuring that your data and browsing activity are kept private and secure from hackers or other third parties.
- Bypass ISP throttling: Internet Service Providers (ISPs) often slow down your connection during heavy streaming. A VPN can prevent this by masking your activity, helping to maintain faster speeds.
- Unblocks geo-restricted content: A VPN allows you to access Disney+ content from different regions by changing your virtual location, unlocking shows and movies unavailable in your area or your country.
- Can prevent ads or trackers: Many VPNs have built-in ad-blocking and anti-tracking features, providing a smoother streaming experience.
- Can prevent viruses and malware: Some VPNs offer malware protection, helping block harmful sites or downloads while you enjoy your content.
What if your VPN doesn’t work with Disney+
If your VPN isn’t working with Disney+, don’t worry — there are several steps you can take to fix the issue. Below are some solutions to help you get back to streaming.
- Try a different server: Disney+ often blocks specific VPN servers. Switching to another server in your VPN's network may restore access.
- Clear cache and cookies: Stored data can reveal your actual location. Clear your browser's cache and cookies to prevent Disney+ from detecting it.
- Change DNS server and settings: Adjusting your DNS settings can improve connection stability and help bypass geo-restrictions more effectively.
- Contact customer support: If you’re still facing issues, contact your VPN provider’s customer support for guidance on server recommendations or troubleshooting tips.
- Try a different VPN: Some VPNs are better optimized for streaming. If your current service doesn’t work, switching to a different VPN with a strong track record for unblocking Disney+ might be the solution.
FAQs
Does Disney+ allow password sharing?
No. Disney+ has recently banned password sharing outside of the primary household. This policy aims to limit access to only those users who live in the same home as the account holder. The Disney+ CEO, Bob Iger, put this plan in place to try to make the streaming business more sustainable.
Can you share your Disney+ password with other families?
No. The new Disney+ policy restricts sharing your password with people outside your household. If you do, it could lead to account termination or limitation. However, NordVPN can help you bypass the restriction through its Meshnet feature.
Will a VPN work with Disney+?
Yes, a VPN can work with Disney+ by masking your IP address and allowing access to content from different locations. However, Disney+ may still block some VPN servers, so choosing a reliable VPN is essential.
Is It legal to use a VPN with Disney+?
Yes. Using a VPN is legal; however, bypassing Disney+ restrictions may violate their terms of service. Always review the terms of your streaming service and use a VPN responsibly to avoid potential issues.
Bottom line
The new Disney+ password-sharing ban will prevent users from sharing their accounts with people outside their households. This policy aims to limit access to only those who reside in the same home as the account holder.
However, one of the best VPNs can help bypass these restrictions while staying informed about the service's policies. You can use NordVPN’s Meshnet to set up a virtual LAN connection to use the same IP address as the Disney+ account holder.