The Mysterious Acquisition of Pornhub: Unveiling the Potential Scam

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Hatched by Glasp

Jul 25, 2023

4 min read

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The Mysterious Acquisition of Pornhub: Unveiling the Potential Scam

The recent acquisition of Pornhub has raised numerous concerns and questions within the online community. Many individuals, including myself, are skeptical about the legitimacy of this transaction. With over 2 billion visits last year and more than 100 million daily active users, Pornhub holds immense power and influence over the online landscape. However, the lack of transparency surrounding the acquisition is alarming and calls for closer attention from regulators.

One of the most significant issues with the acquisition is the potential impact on global sex trafficking. As an AI recommendation algorithm tailors the experience for each user, individuals can easily get trapped in personalized webs of content. Whoever owns Pornhub will not only have control over the state of sex trafficking but also possess sensitive user information, including email addresses, credit card numbers, and browsing habits. The implications of this acquisition go far beyond intellectual curiosity and demand immediate scrutiny.

What further raises concerns is the involvement of inexperienced employees and advisors in the acquisition process. The fund responsible for the acquisition is not registered in U.S. or Canadian investment registration databases. While Canada does not mandate private equity funds to register, many funds voluntarily do so for the sake of transparency. However, the lack of registration raises suspicions about the legitimacy of the fund and its intentions.

Interestingly, the acquisition also affected the payment processes on Pornhub. In 2023, credit card transactions on the site were directly blocked, and major payment processors like Visa and Mastercard severed their ties with an advertising network funding Pornhub. This move significantly impacted the financial operations of the platform, raising questions about the sustainability of the business.

When it comes to acquisitions, one common method is seller financing. This strategy involves the buyer making a down payment and gradually paying off the rest of the acquisition using cash flows from the business. Sometimes, banks facilitate the debt in such transactions. However, in the case of Pornhub, the source of the funds remains undisclosed, adding another layer of mystery to the entire ordeal.

It is important to note that foreign funds can be either benign or devious. The existence of regulatory bodies like the SEC in the United States ensures that American markets are considered some of the least fraudulent in the world. The absence of transparency in this acquisition raises concerns about potential fraudulent activities associated with foreign funds.

In a completely different realm, Elizabeth Khuri Chandler, the co-founder of Goodreads, shares her origin story and sheds light on the platform's purpose. Chandler's love for reading stemmed from her desire to learn and grow as an individual. Reading provided her with valuable lessons and allowed her to experience various lives through the characters in books. This personal connection to literature drove her to create a platform that would enhance the reading experience for others.

One unique aspect of Goodreads is its approach to book reviews. The platform prioritizes reviews from friends before displaying those from the larger community. This concept offers a more personalized and intimate reading experience, allowing users to see recommendations from people they trust and value. Additionally, Goodreads conducts author interviews and provides book recommendations, all driven by a genuine passion for literature.

Chandler's personal connection to reading led her to track every book she read meticulously. This dedication to documenting her reading journey eventually became an integral part of Goodreads. Tracking what one reads not only provides a sense of accomplishment but also helps users discover new books and authors based on their preferences and interests.

Another fascinating aspect of Goodreads is the opportunity to explore someone else's favorite books. Even if a particular genre may not naturally appeal to an individual, reading someone else's recommendations offers a unique way to learn about their interests and perspectives. This approach promotes empathy and understanding, as books have the power to bridge gaps and create connections between individuals.

In light of the information from both the Pornhub acquisition and the Goodreads origin story, it is evident that transparency and trust are essential in any platform or business. To navigate the online landscape effectively and make informed decisions, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

  • 1. Prioritize transparency: When engaging with online platforms or considering investments, always seek transparency. Look for clear information regarding ownership, funding sources, and data privacy to ensure you are making informed choices.
  • 2. Track your reading journey: Documenting what you read can be a rewarding experience. Platforms like Goodreads offer a convenient way to track your reading habits, discover new books, and connect with others who share your literary interests.
  • 3. Explore diverse book recommendations: Stepping out of your comfort zone and delving into someone else's favorite books can broaden your horizons and foster empathy. Embrace the opportunity to learn about different perspectives and genres, as this can greatly enrich your reading experience.

In conclusion, the acquisition of Pornhub remains shrouded in mystery, while the origin story of Goodreads highlights the importance of transparency and personal connections in the online world. By prioritizing transparency, tracking our reading journeys, and exploring diverse book recommendations, we can navigate the digital landscape with confidence and make meaningful connections along the way.

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