Lots of music lovers search for ways to download MP3s for free. But the fact is there is shareware out there that can be a danger to you, your computer and your privacy. As if that weren’t enough, shareware can also mean big trouble with either the Recording Industry or Motion Picture Associations of America. It’s regular news that the RIAA is actively looking for those who illegally download or share copyrighted music online. Now the MPAA has gotten into the act and begun to sue those who illegally download and share movies as well.

In addition to lawsuits for copyright infringement file sharing software boasts a range of hidden dangers users need to know about.

Top Dangers of File Share Software Music Download Programs

1) Adware: most file sharing programs have it installed into their software. Large media companies provide shareware developers with banner ads to be included in the file sharing program. The ads for free products generate profit for the advertiser, but for the user adware just dumps unwanted advertising onto your computer and can interfere with your operating system.

2) Spyware: this pernicious stuff is often installed in shareware downloads including those for free music and once on your computer secretly searches it for information about you and your web surfing habits. Spyware can perform actions without your knowing and can even change your files and system settings.

3) Spoofing: many file sharing programs are filled with corrupt and fake files. This is called spoofing. You think you’re downloading a song and instead you get a corrupt file. In a new type of spoofing, you get a 20 to 30 loop that plays over and over again for 3 to 4 minutes. It’s believed by some that the RIAA may be behind much of spoofing as a means of convincing people to pay for music downloads legally.

4) Pornography: this is a serious problem with file sharing software. Be aware: porn peddlers will often camouflage their wares as a new game or free music download in order to entice you. The fake file is actually a link: you click it and instead of getting a file you’re redirected to a porn site. This is a very serious risk if kids are around and have access to file sharing.

Free Music Download Programs Summary:
So the big question: are free music download programs safe? In all honesty, controversy, dangers and risk continue to plague file sharing programs. And the risks of copyright infringement and trouble with the RIAA and MPAA are very real. It is therefore absolutely vital that you learn everything you can about a file sharing program before you use it. A little caution and a lot of common sense goes a long way when looking for free music downloads. Better still, there’s a great selection of music download software out there that lets you download free music legally.