Netflix users in Mexico at risk after Data Leak

Today, streaming platforms are no longer just the favorite place to binge-watch series or watch movies. They have also become a magnet for cybercriminals, who see them as a great opportunity to steal personal data.

A new report from cybersecurity firm Kaspersky reveals that, in 2024 alone, more than 7 million stolen or duplicate accounts were detected on services such as Netflix, Apple TV, Disney+, and Prime Video. All of this is part of much larger attacks, whose main objective is to obtain sensitive user information.

Why are so many streaming accounts at risk?

Of the total number of compromised accounts (7,035,236 to be exact), more than 5.6 million are Netflix accounts. Disney+ follows with more than 680,000 accounts, and Prime Video with just over 1,600. Mexico ranks second in terms of attacks and first in terms of Prime Video account thefts.

According to Kaspersky, in many cases, users fall into the trap by downloading pirated content or visiting suspicious websites that ask for unnecessary permissions. With that, attackers can install silent malware on cell phones, computers, or even smart TVs, allowing them to steal passwords, bank details, and even official IDs without the victim noticing.

“The worrying thing is that users often don't realize it until it's too late. Streaming platforms not only have millions of users, they also attract the attention of cybercriminals,” explained Isabel Manjarrez, Kaspersky analyst for Latin America.

Read more: Hackers Clone 74 Netflix Sites to Steal Banking Data

How can you tell if your streaming account has been hacked?

Many users see messages such as “you have logged in from a new device” and don't think much of it. Sometimes they assume it was a friend, an ex-partner, or someone in their household. But beware: these notifications can be a clear sign that your account has been stolen or even sold on the dark web.

And the problem doesn't stop there. When a cybercriminal accesses your account, they can also try to steal valuable information stored on your devices, such as passwords, bank cards, or access to your email.

How can you protect your streaming account?

Protecting your accounts doesn't have to be complicated. With a few digital habits, you can save yourself a lot of headaches. Here are some easy but very effective recommendations to keep you safe:

1. Change your passwords from time to time: Don't wait for something strange to happen. Updating your password every so often is a simple way to keep intruders away.
   
   
2. Use different passwords for each service: Yes, we know it can be a hassle, but if you use the same password everywhere and one is leaked, all your accounts are at risk.
   
   
3. Enable two-step verification: That second step to log in may seem annoying, but it's a barrier that many hackers can't easily bypass.
   
   
4. Only download from trusted sites: Don't search for that “free” movie on weird websites. Many viruses sneak in that way.
   
   
5. Avoid opening suspicious files: Especially if they end in .exe or .msi and you don't know what they're for. If you don't recognize it, don't open it.
   
   
6. Keep your antivirus and firewall up to date: It's not just a habit, it's your line of defense. Make sure everything is up to date.
   
   
7. Connect to secure networks or use a VPN: Public Wi-Fi networks can be a playground for cybercriminals. If you can, browse with extra protection.

Nowadays, we have everything connected at home: TVs, consoles, speakers, even the refrigerator. That's why taking care of your digital security should be as routine as choosing your favorite series for the night.

Because in this era of streaming, a small oversight can not only mean that someone can access your account... but also that they end up with access to your most sensitive personal data. And that, clearly, is not worth it.