P2P File Sharing
What is the difference between uploading and downloading?
In a complete file-sharing cycle, items are uploaded from one computer and downloaded into another. One could upload and share songs they had written and recorded with others who have written and recorded their own music and this is lawful activity. P2P software however, doesn't distinquish between content that is copyrighted and content that is not. Having P2P software installed on one's computer leaves the door open for copyrighted songs, which may have been purchased and downloaded legally, to be unlawfully uploaded without the owner of the computer's knowledge or permission.
How can I download music or other copyrighted works?
Downloading itself is not illegal per se. It is what you download that may violate the law. There are many companies that sell access to digital works and you may purchase them through those vendors. You should read their terms of conditions carefully though as there are sham companies that appear to be legal but are not. Legal music download sites may be found here.
Am I safe if I turn off uploading in my P2P software?
No, not necessarily. Any time you have P2P software installed on your computer you take a risk. Some P2P applications will reset themselves to upload every time you use them, even if you'd previously set them not to upload. You are responsible for your use of P2P technology. If you choose to use it, you will have to keep checking to assure that you are using it lawfully.
Am I violating University policy to have P2P software on my computer?
No. There are lawful uses for P2P technology. It is how you use the software that may violate University policy and/or the law.
Am I violating University policy to use P2P software to upload and download?
Not necessarily. It is how and what you upload and download that may violate University policy and/or the law.
How is it possible for someone to upload without their knowledge?
Many P2P applications come already configured to upload. If one does not specifically reconfigure the application to prevent uploading, it is possible to be uploading without knowledge of doing so. With some applications, even if one has reconfigured them to not upload, they will reset themselves to do so. Often times, if one allows others to use their computer, they may have downloaded and installed P2P applications unbeknownst to the computer's owner.
Can others see my uploading activities?
Yes, anyone on the Internet who chooses to look may see it, including the RIAA who is looking and who is sending cease and desist notices.
Does the University care about unlawful downloading of copyrighted material?
Yes. It is a violation of University policy to engage in copyright infringement, which includes using P2P software to download copyrighted works. Legal music download sites may be found here.
(contents via Western Michigan University)
http://www.wmich.edu/dmca/basics.html.
Disabling Peer-to-Peer Filesharing
http://security.uchicago.edu/peer-to-peer/no_fileshare.shtml