Beware of Dangerous Downloads

Week of October 26, 2009

Peer-to-peer programs such as LimeWire, BitTorrent, and the infamous Napster have been around for many years. However, persons using peer-to-peer programs may, in fact, get more than they bargained for. State and federal laws make it illegal to download copyrighted music, movies and other materials. Penalties can be as high as five years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines. Military members may also face courts-martial or other punitive or administrative actions for engaging in this illegal behavior. These programs may also give strangers using the same program access to your computer. If you have any questions regarding the potential legal pitfalls of peer-to-peer software, call your base's legal office.