P2P

P2P file sharing is a way of sharing files through peers on the same network. For example, music, movies, pictures, and documents can all be shared via this process. This can be great for a lots of users, as created or otherwise lost content can be uploaded and shared to others who may not normally have the opportunity to gain access to those files otherwise. However, there is more issues than benefits, in my opinion. Many song artists and film makers have lost millions in revenue due to stolen copyrighted material, which is then shared to thousands or sometimes millions of other users via a P2P software. These highly illegal actions have led to plenty of lawsuits and campaigns to stop this process. But, criminals are attempting to counter these efforts. Pirate Bay, one of the largest P2P sharing sites, has been "offering a new service aimed at foiling both that plan and other efforts to track down file sharers. The site charges users 5 euros a month, or about $6.60, for technology capable of hiding a computer’s Internet address." It will be a constant battle, but hopefully we can limit file sharing to non-copyrighted material so that everyone may have their rights upheld.

Sources:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/13/technology/internet/13iht-piracy13.html