Game Scene Groups - How they work?

Hey, im not sure if this is in the correct forum. So my apologies if it is!

Just a general query, i've always wondered about the scene groups who release console games.
Do they (like some movie groups) when they 'release' a ripped game make any money in doing so along the way?
Or is it all done to gain respect and one over on other rival release groups?

They must do somehow or why would they go to the trouble of risking been caught and jailed/fined.

Thanks