At this point in time, there is an abundance of ways to watch televisions shows and movies online. Many consumers subscribe to an online streaming service, such as Netflix, Hulu or Amazon. While it may not be recommended, there are still many people that use torrents to gain access to this content. BitTorrent and Utorrent have become enormously popular since they’re programs that are utilized for this specific purpose. Nevertheless, these programs are not perfect. In order to use this software safely, it is pertinent to take precautions to protect your identity and your computer. You will find tips for doing just that below.

Understanding Torrents

Most people are well aware of the basic construct of torrents. By using torrents, it is possible to download files from other people from all around the world. The files acquired can be pretty much anything from e-books to music. Downloading files in this manner is truly a 2-way street. This is true because you’ll simultaneously download the file and upload it to others. When downloading files in this manner, small pieces of the file are downloaded from numerous sources all around the web. Torrents originally emerged in 2001 and their use has continued to spread and grow.

Using torrents to gain access to the files you desire is undeniably easy. Nevertheless, it is pertinent to take steps to protect yourself from malicious software and your Internet service provider.

Your IP Address

When using torrents without any protection, your computer’s IP address will be visible to others. There is a possibility that someone could eavesdrop on your data. Alternatively, other users could flood your computer with bad traffic. Even worse is the fact that you could be caught red-handed downloading copyrighted materials. Your computer’s IP address can easily be traced and your online activity could be discovered. While it may be possible to change your IP address, it is almost certain that your Internet service provider will keep track of this information. With this in mind, it is essential to hide your IP and your Internet activity, so it remains concealed from prying eyes.

Malware Risks Are A Major Issue

[pullquote]Many people do not give much thought to the risks of utilizing torrents, which is a huge mistake.[/pullquote] One of the biggest risks of downloading a file that contains metadata, especially those associated with movies and songs, is downloading a malicious file or crippling virus. While some torrent downloads may be perfectly safe, there is always going to be malware risks. Believe it or not, you will not even be aware of the malicious file until the file is completely downloaded onto your computer.

Once the disguised malware is opened, it’s mainly because the individual downloading the torrent file is unaware of the risks or has a false sense of security. You may not even be able to remove it from your computer, which means that it will have to be taken into a computer shop to be removed.

Torrents And Lawsuits

As you probably already know, utilizing torrents to access newly released songs and videos can be rather risky, because of potential lawsuits. Movie and music producers are losing a lot of money through torrents. Every person that downloads a torrent file means that it is one more person that is avoiding financially supporting the product. For instance, a new release on a DVD may cost anywhere from $15 to $20 and this money is needed to supplement the production costs. With millions of dollars being lost to pirating each year, producers, celebrities, and other professionals are now more than willing to file a lawsuit against an individual or entity partaking in these illegal practices.

Using Encryption

Encrypting the data sent to and from your computer is highly recommended. Unfortunately, this is not a perfect solution, but it can still provide you with a little extra reassurance. By encrypting your data, you will be able to make it illegible to onlookers. However, the IP address itself and other details may still be visible and readable. Also, encryption requires your peers to have it enabled as well.

Using A VPN

If you are sincerely concerned about protecting your privacy, you will definitely want to consider using a VPN or virtual private network. There are free and paid solutions. Both can work significantly well, as long as they’re set up and utilized correctly. Truly, it is in your best interest to learn how to hide your IP with BitTorrent, before engaging in such behavior. Learn more about the VPN and how to set it up on your specific torrent software.

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