YouTube has announced a crackdown on users trying to access cheaper Premium subscriptions through VPNs, reports TechCrunch.
Because VPNs allow users to hide their locations and receive cheaper subscription costs, several Reddit users complained about their Premium plans being cancelled because they used them to sign up from other countries. This prompted YouTube to take action.
YouTube’s Response to Account Cancellations
YouTube declined to comment on particular cancellations, but a Google support worker told PCMag that accounts that used phony country codes during signup had their Premium memberships cancelled. Users who were impacted were contacted through in-app messages and emails.
For example, YouTube Premium costs £2.30 per month in Ukraine compared to $13.99 in the US, showcasing the price differences driving the crackdown.
Enforcing Fairness in Subscription Pricing
This move aligns with YouTube’s broader strategy to enforce policies more rigorously, aiming to prevent users from exploiting pricing differences and ensuring fair treatment for all subscribers.
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