What are the Dangers of sharing files in a P2P Network?

Children need to be careful when they are using P2P networks. There are both obvious and hidden dangers that exist.

• Wrong Files – There is often confusion between what you think you are downloading and what is actually downloaded. Names and descriptions for files can be misleading and you could end up with inappropriate materials.
• Viruses – Often a virus can be attached to a file that is shared across the network. The virus can infect your personal computer.
• Spyware – Spyware (small applications that install themselves on your computer and then send information back to somewhere else on the Internet) can be downloaded with files without your knowledge.
• Illegal – Many files shared in P2P networks are copyrighted and should not be shared out or downloaded. Legal action by the owners of the copyrighted works, against users illegally sharing the files could arise.
• Paedophiles – Paedophiles can use P2P communities to distribute child porn materials or attempt to make contact with children.