File Sharing May Share Viruses, Too
File sharing programs are controversial because they may allow people to share copyrighted movies, music and software applications over the Internet. If you, or someone who uses your computer, have a peer to peer sharing program installed, be aware that the potential to download viruses, trojans and more is there. Let Support.com check your computer and make sure it’s free of malware.
Make sure some file sharing sites haven’t infected your computer!
Napster, Kazaa, Ares: A Short History of File Sharing
Online file sharing was introduced to many through Napster, a program that allowed its users to share MP3s. The original version was released in 1999, but shut down in 2001 by a court order. This happened due to legal complaints raised against free file sharing of copyrighted music by the RIAA (Recording Industry of America). Later, Napster was reborn as a paid subscription service.
Although Napster in its original incarnation was shut down, the idea of free online file sharing spread.
Now, there are several applications that allow movie file sharing and more. This causes many to ask is file sharing legal? The answer depends on what is being shared. If you own the copyright to a file, then yes, it is legal to share with others over an open network. Examples of this could include you playing your own original music, a computer program you have written and more. Stay away from sharing content that you did not personally create.
However, there could be legal consequences for sharing movies and music for which you do not own the copyright. And if someone shares copyrighted material using your computer, even if it happens inadvertently, then it could be traced back to you. Please be aware of this if you have others using your computer. In addition to this, there are other issues that you may not have considered.
The Dangers of Free Online File Sharing and Viruses
There’s also another danger to file sharing networks that many don’t consider: How do you know the file being shared and downloaded doesn’t contain viruses or other malware? Executable files (i.e., programs you install and run) may contain trojans that piggyback a ride into your computer.
If this malware is secretly installed on your computer, it could allow virus writers to take control of your computer remotely—using it to send spam, commit fraud and more. Worse, these actions could be traced back to you since they would appear to be originating from your computer. Don’t take this chance.
Contact one of our Personal Technology Experts and ask about our extensive 52-point diagnostic checkup. We’ll clean your computer of all viruses, trojans and other malware that may have been picked up on a file sharing network.
We can also help you with:
- Fixing general computer problems, big and small
- File recovery problems
- Remove spyware and adware
- Ensure you have a secure file sharing portal
- Deleting botnets
- Install correct drivers
- Eliminate malware piggybacking from file sharing sites
- Advanced laptop and desktop repair
- LCD monitor device driver issues
- Fixing a "zombie" computer
- Device connections
- System restore
- System start-up problems
- System memory problems
- Optimize and speed up your computer
Free File Sharing Software: Is It Worth It?
"Free" often comes at a price.
Online file sharing services can fulfill a legitimate, legal need. But some have the potential for questionable use as well.
The promise of free music, movies and software is a strong lure to many people. Virus writers know this. This is why they have uploaded their own tainted files marked as popular draws.
Make sure you play it safe when using a file sharing network.
At Support.com, we want to help you get the most out of your technology. This includes providing helpful information on subjects like file sharing, and keeping your computer free of viruses.
We also want you to get first-class service. All of our Personal Technology Experts® must first earn their title by passing a series of incredibly rigorous tests. We want to make sure you get the best service possible.
Contact Support.com right now and have your computer checked for viruses.
Contact Support.com and make sure you’re safe if you’ve visited a file sharing site.
