Technology: chains and chokepoints Behind simple file names are entire ecosystems of tools and techniques. Compressing files as 7z, splitting archives, hiding metadata, and hosting on ephemeral or semi-private services are all technical methods for persistence and distribution. They exploit the gaps between detection systems and the ingenuity of humans who repackage content to evade takedowns. At scale, these techniques form resilient distribution chains that are hard to sever without addressing the social incentives that drive sharing.