The FBI warns internet users for the risk of peer-to-peer networks, because the technology comes with all kinds of dangers, according to the American intelligence service on its website. Through peer-to-peer networks users can easily exchange all kinds of files.
According to the FBI there are 3 big risks for which users should be aware.
The first is the risk of violating copyright laws.
"Just because you can find and download the latest movie or music does not mean it is legal to do so. It is still a federal crime to distribute copyrighted material—including software and games—without authorization," Beth Anne Steele of the FBI writes.
She continues with the second risk, the risk of stumbling upon child exploitation. Steele warns that peer-to-peer networks are used to exchange child pron and children en kan easily download all kinds of porn through file sharing networks.
As last, the FBI warns for the danger of being hacked. Attackers regularly use peer-to-peer networks to gain access to systems of users so they can install malware on them, the FBI writes.
"Bad guys regularly use peer-to-peer networks to gain access to unsuspecting users' computers so that they can load malware on the system. Hackers are even writing worms to specifically target peer-to-peer connected systems," Steel adds.
Users who discover illegal activities on peer-to-peer networks are asked to report this to the FBI.
