7 Million+ Streaming Accounts Compromised in 2024—Kaspersky Report Reveals Massive Credential Leak
A new Kaspersky cybersecurity report has revealed a staggering 7,035,236 streaming service accounts were compromised in 2024, with popular platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video among the most affected. This massive breach is part of a broader wave of credential theft campaigns that increasingly target Gen Z—the generation most immersed in digital streaming culture.
Streaming is more than entertainment for Gen Z—it’s a daily habit, social lifeline, and cultural identity marker. But according to cybersecurity experts, that emotional connection is now becoming a cybersecurity blind spot.
Netflix Tops the List: Over 5.6 Million Compromised Accounts
Kaspersky’s Digital Footprint Intelligence team analysed leaked credentials circulating in underground forums and marketplaces. Their findings point to Netflix as the biggest target:
- Netflix: 5,632,694 leaked accounts
- Disney+: 680,850 leaked accounts
- Amazon Prime Video: 1,607 leaked accounts
- Apple TV+ and Max were also affected, though in lower volumes.
The top three countries with the most exposed Netflix accounts in 2024 were Brazil, Mexico, and India, regions with high Gen Z engagement and rapidly growing digital populations.
How Cybercriminals Steal Streaming Credentials
Importantly, these accounts weren’t compromised via the platforms themselves. Instead, cybercriminals harvested credentials through malware infections, phishing attacks, browser extensions, and unofficial or pirated content downloads.
Once a device is infected, malware can silently extract:
- Login credentials
- Session cookies
- Stored payment data
- Personal files
These data points are then sold or leaked on underground cybercrime forums, often for as little as a few dollars, or even given away to gain credibility within hacker circles.
Streaming Culture, Fandoms & Cyber Vulnerabilities
Gen Z’s deep involvement in online fandoms, TikTok trends, and meme culture makes them especially vulnerable. Streaming shows are dissected and shared across platforms, yet devices used for streaming often go unprotected.
According to Kaspersky:
“What begins as a compromised Netflix password can quickly snowball into broader digital intrusion, identity theft, or financial fraud, especially if the same credentials are reused across multiple services.”
Kaspersky’s Response: Launch of Case 404 Game for Gen Z
To combat rising cyber threats in youth spaces, Kaspersky has launched Case 404, a free interactive cyber-detective game tailored specifically for Gen Z. The game aims to educate young users through gamified experiences based on real-world threats.
Key Features of Case 404:
- Players become AI-powered cyber detectives
- Investigate realistic online crimes
- Learn to spot phishing links, malware, and fake apps
- Unlock cybersecurity skills while having fun
- Earn a discount on Kaspersky Premium upon completion
Tips to Protect Your Streaming Accounts in 2024
With streaming platforms becoming cybercrime targets, Kaspersky advises users—especially Gen Z—to take a multi-layered approach to online safety:
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all streaming accounts.
- Avoid unofficial streaming sites and pirated content.
- Don’t reuse passwords across services.
- Install reputable antivirus software.
- Stay alert for phishing emails, suspicious downloads, or fake browser extensions.
- Regularly monitor account activity for unfamiliar logins.
As Polina Tretyak, digital footprint analyst at Kaspersky, puts it:
“Protecting your streaming account today means thinking beyond passwords — it means securing your devices, avoiding suspicious downloads, and being mindful of where your clicks lead you.”
Gen Z Must Strengthen Digital Defenses
Streaming services have evolved into digital sanctuaries for Gen Z—but that trust is now being exploited. The leak of 7 million+ streaming credentials in 2024 serves as a wake-up call: cybercriminals are targeting where young users feel safest.
With tools like Case 404 and enhanced security habits, Gen Z can build digital resilience and protect not just their accounts but their entire online identity.
