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Streaming Services

Introduction

Streaming services have transformed entertainment consumption since Netflix launched its streaming platform in 2007. While providing convenient access to vast libraries of content, these services also collect extensive data about our viewing habits, preferences, and even emotional responses to content. This data collection goes far beyond simple watch history, creating detailed profiles of users’ interests and behaviors.

Providers

Netflix

The streaming giant collects detailed viewing habits, including when you pause, rewind, or abandon content. In 2021, Netflix expanded its data collection to include mobile device movement data for improved mobile playback, raising privacy concerns. The company uses this data for content recommendations and development decisions.

Amazon Prime Video

As part of Amazon’s ecosystem, Prime Video integrates viewing data with shopping habits and other Amazon services. In 2020, Amazon faced scrutiny for combining Prime Video viewing data with Alexa voice recordings and Ring camera footage to create comprehensive user profiles.

Disney+

Disney’s service tracks viewing patterns and integrates data across its entertainment empire. In 2022, Disney updated its privacy policy to allow more extensive data sharing between its streaming, theme park, and merchandise divisions, prompting privacy concerns.

Hulu

Owned by Disney, Hulu collects viewing data and serves targeted advertisements in its ad-supported tier. The service has faced criticism for its extensive tracking capabilities, including monitoring users across devices and combining data with third-party sources.

Recommendations

  1. Use separate profiles for different family members
  2. Opt out of personalized ads and recommendations where possible
  3. Review and adjust privacy settings regularly
  4. Consider using a dedicated streaming device
  5. Be cautious with linked accounts and social features
  6. Use a separate email address for streaming services

Actions

  • Review and update privacy settings on all streaming services
  • Create separate viewing profiles for each family member
  • Disable autoplay and automatic recommendations
  • Opt out of data sharing for advertising
  • Enable two-factor authentication on streaming accounts
  • Clear viewing history if desired
  • Review connected devices and remove unused ones