On The Web - Chatrooms
- Instant Messaging - E-Mail
- Peer-to-Peer - Newsgroups
& Forums - Social Networking
| Peer-to-Peer (P2P) systems let you exchange files
without a web site or other centralized system. The most famous of
these services are used to share music files. There are plenty of
other P2P systems. Some allow you to exchange other types of files
including video, photographs, text documents, and software.
Aside from the legal and ethical issues regarding the unauthorized
sharing of copyrighted material, there are some serious safety issues
regarding these services. Some of the downloaded files — including
photographs and videos — may be upsetting or harmful. It’s also
a popular way for child molesters to exchange illegal images of
children.
P2P file-sharing systems encourage users who download files to
upload them as well. This may turn your PC into a server that shares
your files, which can place you in legal trouble or possibly allow
others to gain access to personal stuff on your computer. It’s like
giving someone you don’t know the opportunity to know everything
about you. It can also cause problems for other computers if you’re
on a business, home, or school network.
Another problem with file-sharing services is the software used
to access them can sometimes come with unwelcome extra “features”
such as “spy ware” programs that can invade your privacy and display
annoying advertising.
If you use a file-sharing service, be careful about what “permissions”
you give when you set it up. Avoid sharing your own files and say
no to any offers to install extra software. Even then, there is
no guarantee you will not experience problems as a result of having
the software on your computer.
|
|