The BBC has added password controls to its iPlayer service, thus forcing viewers to register in order to watch its programmes.

iPlayer users will now need to provide the BBC with their name, date of birth, email and home address if they want to use the service. They will then have to log in when they want to watch something.

The BBC insists that this move "isn’t to crack down on users watching BBC content without a TV licence"  but said that it will match users names and email addresses against its licence fee database, to spot those watching content without paying.

When it became mandatory for iPlayer viewers to have a TV license last year, questions were raised over exactly how the corporation planned to monitor usage. “It isn’t about enforcing the licence fee – it’s about giving you a better BBC and helping you get the most out of it. We’re not going to use mass surveillance techniques or ask internet providers for IP addresses. The information provided will help TV Licensing ensure that people are abiding by the law, and minimise licence fee evasion.” it said.

The broadcaster said that the change will help it provide personalised recommendations ...

So how are people who access (quite legally) iPlayer on a freeview box, a freesat box or a TV with "on demand" thingys? How can one login without any form of keyboard entry on most of these devices? A while ago, the BBC changed the iPlayer system thus making my old (good and simple interfaces)  Freesat box and the replacement with all those nasty pictures/menus everywhere also probably doesn't enable login!
UGH!!