The data ownership reminds me a bit of an early business ummm transaction if Dr Phil:

1. Sell the gullible public long-term memberships to a gym, with long-term subscriptions.

2. Sell the subscriptions to a 3rd party.

3. Close gym. Subscription contract still valid.

https://www.celebitchy.com/8971/dr_phil_ran_a_health_club_sc...