Many collectors of "secret star" content justify their interest by claiming the models are "18+." However, forensic analysis of the most sought-after "secret sessions" (dating back to the mid-2000s) has repeatedly shown that many models were minors—often as young as 10 to 14. In nearly all Western jurisdictions, possessing sexualized images of minors (even if they are clothed but posed provocatively) can fall under child exploitation laws.
Developing an artist publicly is expensive and risky. By refining a performer's skills and marketability in secret sessions, studios ensure that when the artist is finally revealed to the public, the chance of failure is near zero.