" America Online, of course, is a master of the hard sell, from stuffing mailboxes with free trial offers to forcing subscribers to click through ads before they can get their e-mail. "
- Alex Berenson

The quote discusses the aggressive marketing tactics employed by America Online (AOL) back in its heyday. The statement highlights how AOL would inundate users with offers and ads, such as sending unsolicited emails offering free trials or making users view advertisements before accessing their email inbox.

On a deeper level, this comment reflects broader concerns about intrusive advertising practices in the digital era. It underscores how businesses like AOL leveraged technological advancements to push their marketing strategies further into consumer spaces, often without clear consent. This approach raises questions about privacy and user experience, as companies seek to maximize engagement through whatever means possible, even if it compromises users' comfort and control over their online activities.

Alex Berenson is a journalist known for his coverage of technology and media trends. He has written extensively on the intersection between business practices and consumer behavior in the digital space, often shedding light on how tech giants manipulate user interfaces to increase engagement and revenue.