Peer-to-peer File Sharing(P2P) and Spyware

Although nothing is wrong with peer-to-peer file sharing (i.e. bittorrent or file sharing networks like gnutella, etc.), almost all its actual uses are illegal. The predominant use of peer-to-peer file sharing networks is to share music files, videos, software and other protected or copyrighted content, typically illegally, with others on the peer-to-peer network.

Legal problems aside, file sharing networks/software make your computer vulnerable to spyware and viruses. Many files on these networks have spyware embedded into them. In addition to this, the software for these peer-to-peer networks may leave a computer or network open to spyware in the following ways:

  • All types of files can be shared, include binary executables. Spyware and viruses can be emebbeded into these types of files and when opened will infect your computer.
  • Some peer-to-peer programs themselves have spyware bundled with them that gets installed when the peer-to-peer program is installed.

The result is a pretty ugly situation. Not only does the peer-to-peer software poke several holes in your system, enabling spyware to seep in, but some software also contains vulnerabilities that allow people to retrieve any file they choose to form the peer computer.

Recommended Spyware Removal Tools:

Spybot-Search & Destroy
Spybot - Search & Destroy is a free anti-spyware solution that is very effective in detecting and removing...More information

Spyware Terminator
Spyware Terminator is a free spyware removal tool that is highly effective in protecting your computer...More information

SpywareBlaster
SpywareBlaster is a free spyware removal tool from a small company called Javacool software. However,...More information

Other Tools:

Hijackthis
HijackThis is a free tool which scans your computer to find settings that may have been changed by spyware, malware or other unwanted programs...More information

CCleaner
CCleaner is a freeware system optimization, privacy and cleaning tool. It removes unused files from your system - allowing Windows to run faster and freeing up valuable hard disk space...More information