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This centralization created a dependency on platforms that act as gatekeepers—such as YouTube, Spotify, and social media giants—who profit by commodifying user data and acting as middlemen in transactions. Artists and content creators lose direct contact with their audience, and their income relies heavily on the platform's rules and revenue share.
The Payment Conundrum: Broken Systems and Data Exploitation
A critical obstacle is the outdated credit card infrastructure, designed long before online commerce boomed. Transactions for digital content involve minimum amounts often exceeding the actual value, rendering micropayments impractical. Additionally, entering billing information each time creates privacy risks and exposes users to identity theft.