The expression refers to lists of usernames and passwords for a streaming service, particularly Netflix, which can be purportedly saved in a spreadsheet format utilizing Microsoft Excel or a appropriate program. The spreadsheet would include columns for person login credentials (electronic mail or username) and their corresponding passwords. The file extension “.xls” signifies the file’s supposed format as an older model of an Excel workbook.
The dissemination and acquisition of such recordsdata increase important moral and authorized considerations. Unauthorized entry to accounts violates phrases of service agreements and will represent legal exercise below laptop fraud and abuse legal guidelines. Moreover, the distribution of those credentials can result in identification theft, monetary losses, and different associated harms for the legit account holders. Traditionally, a majority of these lists have circulated on underground boards and darkish internet marketplaces, usually obtained by means of phishing schemes, knowledge breaches, or credential stuffing assaults.