Sharing and Downloading Files, Music, and Video
Half the fun of going online for tweens, teens and even their parents is finding new and interesting files, music and videos to enjoy. While there are plenty of reputable locations to access this type of information, not all are safe. This is why it’s important for parents and kids to lay some ground rules for downloading activities and stick with them.
Safety Tips for File Sharing and Downloads
It really doesn’t take kids long to realize that sharing music, videos and other files with their friends and family can be a whole lot of fun. These activities, however, can expose computers to malware and in some cases downloads might even make teens bump up against piracy laws. Here are some tips that can help everyone in the house more safely handle downloads:
- Always run antivirus protection software. This really shouldn’t be optional. Make sure antivirus protection runs in the background each and every time the Internet is accessed. It’s also important to make certain that firewalls run in the background and that other Internet protection programs are in place.
- Avoid file sharing sites. While FTP sites and other file sharing programs can be useful for work and school, kids should be limited to using only school-based sharing programs. This is simply because file-sharing sites make it very easy for bad guys to gain access to computers. All they have to do is include spyware, keystroke loggers, viruses and other malicious code in the programs. To avoid this, make sure kids are restricted from using these sites.
- Make sure kids only download music and videos from sites where it is legal. Unfortunately, movie and music piracy is a very real problem in the Internet age. To make sure kids stay on the right side of the law, explain the inherent problems associated with piracy. Also make sure kids know where it is safe to download music or videos from. Sites such as iTunes and Amazon may charge, but they help ensure legal issues are avoided.
- Keep antivirus software up to date. The bad guys are constantly changing their codes, so antivirus software must be updated to protect against the most recent threats. Be sure to check software versions frequently and update when needed.
The Internet is a great place to explore music, videos and more. Keep it safe by setting some ground rules for online adventures. Doing so can keep kids out of harm’s way while ensuring they don’t run afoul of the law.