The phrase refers to on-line platforms that disseminate copyrighted content material from a subscription-based service with out authorization. These web sites present unauthorized entry to materials that people have paid to view, bypassing the meant paywall. This observe represents a violation of copyright regulation and the phrases of service of the unique platform.
The existence of such platforms poses important challenges to content material creators and the subscription-based enterprise mannequin. It undermines their income streams, devalues their work, and may result in monetary losses. Traditionally, comparable points have plagued different types of digital content material, resembling music and films, prompting authorized and technological countermeasures.