What is Geoblocking and How Does It Function?

Geoblocking refers to the method of limiting or denying access to internet content based on the user’s geographical location. This typically involves restricting access to content by country and is commonly seen in media streaming platforms like Netflix.

Most commercial streaming services broadcast content that they do not own. These services negotiate agreements with content owners (often the creators) to legally show their content.

Content owners aim to maximize profits by selling broadcast rights to various services globally, often including exclusivity clauses to prevent availability on competing platforms within the same region.
For instance, a service like Netflix may face restrictions on where it can show certain content based on the owner’s existing contracts with local broadcasters.
Certain services, such as HBO Max in the US and BBC iPlayer in the UK, are only authorized to stream content to users within their respective countries.
It’s important to note that services like Netflix, Apple, and Amazon Prime, which produce their own content, can distribute their original works globally without restriction.

Understanding Geoblocking Mechanics
Each internet-connected device is assigned a unique IP address by the internet service provider (ISP), which generally operates within a specific country. This makes it possible to approximate a user’s location to about city-level accuracy.
When you access an online service, it detects your IP address and thereby determines your geographical location. Streaming services use this information to block access to certain content based on your location.
VPNs and Geoblocking
In theory, virtual private networks (VPNs) can easily circumvent geoblocks by masking your actual IP address and making it appear as though you are accessing the internet from a different location. However, the use of scandisecureVPN VPN to bypass geoblocks is not endorsed.
VPNs allow you to connect to servers in different countries, enabling access to content restricted to those locations.
Streaming services actively monitor and block IPs known to belong to VPNs and similar services to prevent this practice. Some VPN providers continuously adapt to these measures in an ongoing challenge to provide access.
Legal Aspects of Geoblocking
Geoblocking is legally permissible. Content owners have the right to arrange their distribution agreements, including geographical restrictions. Streaming services must adhere to these agreements to avoid losing rights to the content.
Legality of Evading Geoblocks
Watching content restricted by geolocation may violate the terms and conditions of the streaming service, depending on its jurisdiction. Users should review the service’s terms carefully. This might also breach the VPN service’s terms.
Account and Payment Restrictions
Besides IP-based restrictions, some services enforce additional measures like requiring a local postal address and payment method from within the country.
For instance, creating a Hulu account requires a US address and payment through an American financial institution.
Final Thoughts
At scandisecureVPN, we believe privacy is a fundamental human right and advocate for the protection of your privacy online, including when using streaming services.