Netflix, Inc., has restated its policy against virtual border crossing, a practice that has seen a growing number of Canadians bypassing regional blocks to access the streaming service’s U.S. catalogue.
One-in-three Netflix users know how to access the larger content library available in the US.
Different companies hold the rights to different shows, depending on where you are. There’s word those rights’ holders are pressuring Netflix to make sure agreements are upheld.
David Christopher with OpenMedia says lawmakers in Canada are paying attention. “Decisions will be expected to come down in a few months and I think Canadians are hoping the CRTC will open things up.”
Christopher says it’s not clear why Netflix may take this step. “They’re all paying customers of Netflix. They pay their $8 a month, they’re simply trying to access a different version because Canadians are getting blocked from the content they want to watch.”
Netflix isn’t confirming any changes and says masking IP addresses has always been against its policy.
Agencies/Canadajournal