File sharing is when you transfer a file from one computer to another using the internet. It can be done using multiple sources including but not limiting to, through emails, dropbox, google drive, and numerous other file sharing sites. P2P file sharing is when users use P2P software programs to access media files such as games, videos, and music, through the search on user connected computers on the internet. Some examples of P2P file sharing can be to send large files such as videos and photos to other computers or users. In addition Skype for example using P2P technology for it's communication. The main concern with the use of P2P file sharing is the legality of the content, along with hackers using these programs to gather sensitive information from users computers. There have been several cases over the years of copyrighted content distributed through the use of P2P file sharing sites and programs. Even today users are using P2P programs to share and download illegal and copyrighted music, videos, and paid software. These distribution of illegal content through the P2P file sharing sites and programs have caused the companies and industries the loss of unimaginable amount. The article by Eric Pfanner on New York Times discuses the issues of privacy and copyrighted content shared on P2P sites. The author mentions how according to the American entertainment industry it causes the damage of $20 billion a year in sales. Author also discusses the sites such as Pirate bay and rapidshare which are under court review of being considered whether they in violation of copyright laws. File sharing on the internet is convenient and efficient for not only people among their friends and relatives but also for employers. However we must be cautious of the risks of security and legality when doing so.
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