File-Sharing: Watch What You Download

File-sharing involves access to files stored on other computers connected to a network. Through these so-called "peer-to-peer" networks -- Napster was one of the first widely popularized networks -- users can download or distribute music, computer games, software programs, and even movies.

To get started, you download a file-sharing program onto your computer. Essentially, this allows your computer to communicate with other computers anywhere across the country or world via the Internet. Most users set up a folder on their computer that other computer users from remote locations can dip into and pull music, movies, and other files from. Conversely, you can pull material off the Internet -- out of other users' folders -- and store it in a folder on your computer.

Once the program is downloaded, you're off and running -- a wealth of freebies is available with a couple of keystrokes.

Sound too good to be true? Of course it is. There's a downside to file sharing.  Several substantial risks are involved.

File-Sharing as Theft
If you join a peer-to-peer network to get pop-culture products like music and movies, you better learn something about copyright law. Musical artists and movie producers copyright their work. That means they have the right to limit how and where their works are distributed. They never meant for their artistic endeavors to be offered for free on the Internet. Recently, record companies and movie distributors have started taking legal action against users who share copyrighted files. Anytime you download their work, you leave an electronic trail that's easy to follow. So don't feel that you're immune from detection of prosecution.

Other Risks
The other pitfalls of file sharing are similar to other computer security risks involved with Internet usage:

• Be careful what you download; some users like to attach viruses to their files. Viruses can damage your computer.
• Spyware is rampant through file-sharing networks. Spyware can track your online activities and send the information to interested third parties. All of that spam you've been receiving lately may be a result of your file-sharing network activities.
• Sensitive information is vulnerable. Belonging to a file-sharing network can be like opening the door to your house. Some file-sharing programs can expose your hard drive to other network users. Any sensitive information that you store inside your computer -- credit card numbers, bank account information, social security number, etc. -- can be available to strangers.
• Some users distribute pornography through file-sharing networks. Keep that in mind if your child uses your computer.

Tips
If you actively share files, here are some tips to safeguard yourself:

• Install Spyware detection devices.
• Disconnect from the file-sharing service when you're finished.
• Don't download files from someone you don't know or trust.
• Engage in only legal file sharing; copyright holders are actively seeking out copyright infringement. If you want to download music and movies, subscribe to a legal service.
• Install and update anti-virus software.
• Secure any sensitive information on your computer.
• Install parental controls or monitoring devices