4 easy ways to keep your Netflix account safe from hackers (NFLX)

Netflix

A report on Thursday from the security software company Symantec revealed that hackers are selling stolen Netflix accounts online for as little as $0.25 each.

Some of these accounts are created with stolen credit card information. But others are regular Netflix accounts that cybercriminals have surreptitiously gained access to. 

Tech Insider spoke to Satnam Narang, a Senior Security Response Manager at Symantec, who gave us some tips on how to keep your Netflix account safe.

1. Always use a strong and unique password.

You can think of a strong password as being a nonsensical string of symbols, numbers, and lower and upper-case letters. But having a strong password isn't enough — it also has to be unique, meaning that you don't use it for other services.

That's because when hackers gain access to a database of passwords and login credentials, one of the first things they do is test the credentials against other services. So those who have used the same email address and password across different services could be at risk.

It's pretty much impossible to create and remember multiple unique passwords, so I recommend using a password manager, like like LastPass, 1Password, or Blur, among many others.

2. Be wary of unsolicited emails.

One way cybercriminals gain access to people's Netflix accounts is by "phishing," sending emails that look like they're from Netflix but really aren't. The emails have a link that takes you to a site the thieves have set up that records your account information. 

Narang said to be on the lookout for unsolicited emails that offer deals, like free months of service or reduced rates, or ask you to verify your credentials.

3. Check your recent activity on Netflix.