How do I stop sites from automatically signing me out over a period of inactivity?

Effective Strategies to Prevent Automatic Sign-Outs on Streaming Platforms Due to Inactivity

Many users experience frustration when streaming platforms such as Hotstar and SonyLIV automatically sign them out after periods of inactivity. This issue is particularly common with OTT (Over-The-Top) platforms that implement strict security measures, including account verifications via phone number and OTP (One-Time Password). If you’re facing similar challenges—especially when accounts are shared across devices—this guide offers insights into how you can minimize or prevent unwanted sign-outs, ensuring a smoother viewing experience.

Understanding Why These Platforms Sign You Out

Streaming services often log users out after extended periods of inactivity to enhance security and prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, account sharing or using multiple devices can sometimes trigger these automatic sign-outs, especially if the service deems the activity unusual or potential unauthorized access.

Factors Influencing Sign-Outs

• Cookie Management: Platforms often rely on cookies to maintain session states. Keeping cookies enabled is beneficial; however, some services may have server-side policies that invalidate sessions after prolonged inactivity, regardless of cookie persistence.

• Browser Settings: Certain browser configurations, such as clearing cookies or cache automatically, can lead to session termination.

• Account Sharing: Using an account on multiple devices or browsers can sometimes cause the platform to reset your session, prompting re-authentication.

Practical Steps to Minimize Automatic Sign-Outs

While there’s no guaranteed method to completely prevent sign-outs—primarily because of platform policies—you can implement several strategies to reduce their frequency:

1. Maintain Persistent Cookies and Session Data

   • Use browsers that respect your cookie settings, and avoid automatic clearing of cookies.
   • Consider using browser extensions that manage cookies effectively, ensuring session data remains intact.

2. Use Browser Settings or Extensions to Simulate Activity

   • Employ auto-refresh or keep-alive extensions that periodically send requests to the platform, preventing the session from appearing inactive.
   • Regularly interact with the page (e.g., clicking, scrolling) during idle periods.

3. Login via Trusted Devices

   • Platforms sometimes offer options to remember devices or browsers. Ensure you select such options when available.
   • Using your own device for streaming reduces the likelihood of session resets caused by platform security measures.

4. Avoid Clearing Browser Data

   • Ensure your browser isn’t set to clear cookies and site data automatically, which can disrupt your session.

5. Use a Stable Network Environment
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