When an advertiser files for protection under the United States Bankruptcy Code, they intend to either reorganize or liquidate their business pursuant to a certain plan. To allow the debtor to develop and implement the plan, the bankruptcy code provides that the filing results in an automatic stay that freezes the situation as it exists at the time of filing. The automatic stay severely restricts Rakuten Advertising's ability to terminate or take other action affecting the advertiser unilaterally. Among other things, Rakuten Advertising is legally prohibited from suspending or terminating the advertiser's use of the network to conduct their affiliate program without the prior approval of the bankruptcy court.