University of Michigan - Flint

There is always a risk in having peer-to-peer software on your computer. Aside from opening up your computer to adware, spyware, and Trojan worms and viruses, you might incur a legal risk as well.  Some users inadvertantly allow file-sharing software to share all files on their computer, rather than just music. This could include sensitive personal information you would like to keep protected.  To be safe, remove it or take the time to learn how to use it lawfully, and in ways that will minimize your risk. If you want access to music and movies, there are many ways to download it safely and lawfully through vendors such as iTunes™ or Real Rhapsody™, or directly from the artist’s web page.

For more information on P2P file-sharing, please visit: www.bayu.umich.edu.  (Please note that BAYU is a service that UM-Ann Arbor offers to students on that campus.  UM-Flint students will not receive the emails mentioned at that site even if they are uploading.  It is up to UM-Flint students to discover if their computer is uploading illegal files.  However, the information contained at that site is useful for all UM students.)

Question 11:

Using peer-to-peer file-sharing software could put your computer’s security at risk because:

A.		Some p2p file-sharing could secretly install spyware or adware.
B.		You may be allowing your computer to act as an illegal file-sharing server without your knowledge.
C.		The stuff that you download might not be what you think it is, like a program designed to hijack your system masquerading as Halo 3™.
D.		You may be unknowingly sharing more than just music, for example your tax return.
E.		All of the above.

Question 10  |  Question 12