Top concerns for file sharing
File sharing, AKA peer-to-peer or P2P, is a technology that allows users to search for and copy files from another computer. Most people use P2P to swap digital music files (MP3s).
When you install file sharing software, your computer becomes part of the P2P service's network — meaning that you can easily search for and download almost all the music, videos and photos you want. But don’t forget that others users can search and upload files from your computer as well.
Since P2P is really just a series of computers that share files, you can be at risk for viruses and spyware when you download files from users you don’t know in the real world.
Spyware is a small program hidden in a downloadable file that essentially “spies” on your computer. Just like a real spy, spyware is unseen and can do anything from slow your computer down to track your passwords and credit card numbers.
P2P viruses, like trojans, can turn your computer into a zombie, controlled by an outside user. This outside user uses thousands of zombie PCs to email spam ads over the Internet. Definitely not cool.
As a family, pick a reputable file-sharing site and setup an account together. To avoid downloading illegal files or viruses choose a site where you pay for the content.
Get more tips on how you can make file sharing safer for your kids
