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External Links:

• IT Security Site
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• Colorado: Cyber Security Web Site

File Sharing Risks FAQ

Q: What risks are there in sharing files on the Internet?

A: Whether you share files with others in online communities like Facebook and MySpace or through Peer-To-Peer (P2P) file sharing applications like Limewire and Morpheus, you face the risk of virus, Trojan horse, worm and spyware infections, identity theft and fraud. You also risk potentially violating federal copyright laws if you share copyrighted software programs, books, movies, videos and songs without a license to do so.

Q: What can I do to reduce my risks?

A: To reduce your risks when filing sharing:

• Use and keep your anti-virus software current. Do the same with any other security software you have.
• Install or enable a firewall, which may be able to prevent some types of infection by blocking malicious traffic before it can enter your computer.
• Only accept file downloads or click on links from people you know and trust.
• Before you install any program on your computer, especially a P2P application, read that program’s documentation and disable, if possible, file-sharing access.
• If you do allow file-sharing access, be sure your computer settings don’t allow access to applications, folders or files containing personal information such as passwords, bank account numbers, credit card numbers.
• It is best to assume that all material is copyrighted. The university cannot protect you from a copyright complaint. In fact, it may be legally required to assist a complainant in pursuing action against you.

Q: Everybody I know shares music and video files online for personal use. What’s the big deal?

A: Individual copyright owners and the entertainment industry are quite active in pursuing legal actions. You are not protected just because you received material at no cost or are distributing material with no charge. Your only protection is to not possess or distribute any unlicensed copyrighted material.

Q: Where can I get more information about minimizing my risks?

A: Additional information can be found at the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team’s Web site or call the Northern Colorado Technical Support Center at 351-4357.