The phrase denotes the acquisition of motion picture content online without proper licensing or authorization. This activity typically involves obtaining a digital video file of a film from unofficial sources, circumventing established distribution channels. Such acts represent a breach of copyright laws and potentially expose users to security risks from malicious software often bundled with the illicit content.
Circumventing legitimate distribution methods deprives rights holders of revenue streams essential for continued content creation. It also undermines the financial viability of the entertainment industry, potentially leading to reduced investment in future projects. Historically, the ease of digital file sharing, coupled with the anonymity offered by the internet, has fueled this phenomenon, creating a significant challenge for copyright enforcement agencies.
