It may simply be 2-factor authentication. You request a password reset, and they... | Hacker News

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		11thEarlOfMar on March 22, 2016 \| parent \| context \| favorite \| on: Ask HN: Why is Netflix actually requesting the pho... It may simply be 2-factor authentication. You request a password reset, and they text a code to your phone. You enter that code into your browser. That way, they know you have both the full account details and the associated phone in your possession. Increases the likelihood that you are the authentic account holder. Many sites, Google included, now offer this optionally. If NetFlix is mandating it, perhaps they really have a problem with users accounts being hijacked.

jaredsohn on March 22, 2016 [–]

It is just two-factor authentication and it is optional. I think it is growing in popularity (Mint added it recently as well.)

eveningcoffee on March 22, 2016 | [–]

Thanks. I would put it then on the poor wording and lack of explanation of the feature.

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