Disney has been accused of trying to claim media ownership of popular hashtag "MayThe4th" on Twitter.

Axar.az reports citing foreign media.

The company's streaming service, Disney Plus, encouraged fans to share their favourite Star Wars memories using the hashtag on Monday.

It followed up with a legal warning suggesting any user who tweeted the hashtag was agreeing to Disney's terms and letting it use their content.

It backtracked after a huge protest by fans and widespread mockery.

The hashtag - a play on the franchise's phrase, "May the force be with you," has been used for years to coincide with the made-up fan holiday.