A media file content provider 30 sends a non-permanent copy of a media file, such as a music or video file, to a second mobile station MS 34 in response to a request from a first MS 22. The copy may be rendered non-permanent by streaming it, by encrypting it, and by appending a first instruction to automatically delete it after playing. The first MS 22 may be given an option of delivery pathways, such as cellular 76, 78, WLAN 80, or DVB-H 84. After playing, an offer is made to the second MS 34 to purchase a permanent copy of the media file. If accepted, the content provider may provide another copy of the media file, or preferably a permanent decryption key or a second instruction that defeats the first instruction prior to its deletion of the media file.