File Sharing

What is file sharing?

Peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing means swapping music or other files on peer-to-peer networks which connect millions of people. Users download the P2P software on to their computer to link them to the network and give them access to shared files.

P2P networks are a great way of distributing your own personal files like photos or songs. But copying or sharing copyrighted material such as music, films, games and software without permission or payment, is illegal.

Also, the files sent over a P2P network may not always be what they seem. File-swappers could come across risks such as viruses and unwelcome content. Personal details could also be leaked, possibly resulting in identity theft. So, users should be careful when file sharing.

Tips for parents

1 Talk with the music lovers in your home

Understand how your children access and share music. Children should be aware of the rules around copyright.

2. Check your computer

Make sure that your computer is protected against viruses and spyware. Up to date anti-virus software can screen most things downloaded to your computer that comes from P2P services. You can purchase such software at www.symantecstore.com

3. Explore the web’s legal music

There are lots of legal music retailers on the web and these sites are safe and guarantee sound quality. They offer millions of songs of all genres and periods online. There is a wide variety of ways to discover and buy music online; you can, for example, download individual songs or albums, stream music through an online radio or listen to a huge library of tracks on your computer or music player for a monthly subscription. It is best to stick to legal music retailers on the web. For links to such retailers worldwide go to www.pro-music.org/musiconline.htm