The Netflix black market is currently offering accounts on the online streaming site for only $0.25. Users who pay the regular subscription price of $9.99 may be in danger of having their account information stolen and put up for sale again.

The security firm Symantec wrote on its official blog that hackers illegally acquire account information from Netflix subscribers and then offer the stolen information for sale on the black market.

Symantec explained that hackers steal account information through two ways. First, they initiate malware campaigns that trick users into believing that they have downloaded official Netflix software, which usually includes the promise of a free or discounted account. When users operate the compromised executable, the malware will be installed on their computer, allowing the hacker to access sensitive information. Second, hackers may also launch phishing campaigns, which lets them ride onto a subscriber's account. Hackers will try to redirect users to a fake Netflix website and require them to type in their personal information.

BGR noted that after the hacker acquires the information from legitimate subscribers, these are offered for sale on the black market at significantly reduced prices. The hackers will also provide tips to potential buyers, such as not changing the password or account information to avoid alerting the real account holder and resulting to a lockout.

According to Forbes, a person who purchases a Netflix Generator may even use it to make several accounts to adequately create his own Netflix subscription black market. There has been a potentially huge demand for fresh accounts, which may have compelled hackers to boost their efforts in acquiring account details illegally. Netflix actually has no fault in the hacking activities. The streaming site is a victim, similar to the users themselves.

Netflix also has account generators that provide regularly updated databases of stolen accounts. Legitimate subscribers are warned to never download third-party software that appear to work with Netflix and to only input account information on the official Netflix website and Netflix apps. There are also several products that offer protection to users against malware scams. Users are advised to be cautious when dealing with Netflix-related links and emails in the meantime. People should be wary when a Netflix-related message seems to be requesting for too much information or if a Netflix logo suddenly pops up on their desktop. If a Netflix offer appears too good to refuse, users are advised not to provide their details or wait for a confirmation from the website.

More updates and details are expected soon.