YouTube has announced a crackdown on users trying to access cheaper Premium subscriptions through VPNs, reports TechCrunch.
Several Reddit users reported Premium plan cancellations for using VPNs to sign up from other countries, prompting YouTube to act due to VPNs’ ability to disguise users’ locations and access lower subscription costs.
A YouTube spokesperson told TechCrunch they can detect incorrect signup countries, requiring users to update billing information accurately.
YouTube’s Response to Account Cancellations
YouTube declined to comment on specific cancellations, but according to a Google support agent speaking to PCMag, accounts using falsified signup country info have had their Premium memberships terminated, with affected users notified via email and in-app messages.
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 effort extends beyond Ukraine to users in various countries exploiting regional pricing discrepancies, signaling Google’s commitment to fair pricing globally.
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.