Those who used the streaming platform only to watch content were previously exempt from a TV licence fee - but this has changed. Get the latest top news stories sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter We have more newsletters Get the latest top news stories sent straight to your inbox with our daily newsletter We have more newsletters Netflix subscribers are being urged to follow an important TV rule if they want to avoid hefty penalties. It is known that all British households require a TV licence in order to legally watch or record live TV, no matter what channel.
Those who rely on non BBC affiliated streaming services were previously exempt from the fee, but this may be about to change. It comes as Netflix plans to air the Mike Tyson versus Jake Paul boxing fight this July, as the streaming giant ventures into life broadcasts. According to experts, this change will mean that TV licence rules will apply to those who use Netflix to watch their favourite movies, TV shows - and now sporting events.
In fact, the BBC has confirmed to Cord busters that Netflix users will now have to pay the yearly £169.50fee if they want to watch the highly anticipated match. Evading a TV licence is a criminal offence and not following rules can result in fines of up to £1,000, or possible jail time.
Read below to learn more about why a TV licence is a legal requirement and when you need to have one. A TV licence gives the holder legal permission to use television-receiving equipm.