Stick to copyright-cleared MP3s.
If you want to avoid computer viruses, and support artists that you like, stick to copyright-cleared MP3s. Most file-sharing programs let you choose what kind of files you can search for. Make sure you're only searching for music files (MP3s) and not video or image files.
Use filtered file-sharing programs to avoid viruses and explicit materials.
Some file-sharing programs have their own built-in filtering systems, so it pays to experiment with different types of file-sharing software to see which offer the most protection.
Only use your file-sharing program to exchange files.
Many popular programs now include instant messaging and chat services along with the file-sharing function. Choose a program that doesn't offer these services, or one that permits you to disable access to them.
Look out for "spyware" that's included with some file-sharing programs. Spyware is software that comes bundled with some file-sharing programs. Spyware can track your online activities, automatically add links to Web pages that weren't there before, create pop-ups on your desktop and even allow hackers onto your computer. Before using a file-sharing program do some research online to see if contains spyware.
Protect your computer.
The types of viruses that are spread through file-sharing programs won't work unless they are downloaded onto a computer and then "clicked" open. Never click on a downloaded file with a ".vbs" extension. To be safe, if you don't recognize the extension of a file, don't open it!
Make sure that anti-virus software and firewalls are loaded on your computer for virus protection. Also, when you set up your file-sharing program, do it so other people can only access the files on your computer that you want them to have. (It's a good idea to have an adult sit with you when you're downloading and setting up the program.)
What about copyright and file-sharing?
In the courts, the use of file-sharing programs has raised many questions about copyright and the law. The recording industry claims that file-sharing doesn't respect its copyright on recordings and is costing it money through lost revenues. People who support file-sharing believe that the recording industry has too much control over music and that individuals should be able to share and exchange music files if they want.
- Is it ethical to download copyrighted music for free? The sharing of copyright-protected files over the Internet may contravene copyright laws in some jurisdictions but that hasn't stopped file-sharers from downloading and swapping millions of files without the permission of the artists or their recording company. Is this the same as stealing?
- What about the artists who created the work – should they be compensated? How might they be compensated when their music is swapped through file-sharing?
- Now that the recording companies are beginning to create their own Internet music services, do you think that people who have been downloading music for free are going to want to pay?
© 2005 Media Awareness Network.
