File-sharing utilities and client-to-client communication applications
File-sharing utilities and client-to-client communication applications can provide the capability to share files with other users (for instance, peer-to-peer networking or sharing). What risks and/or vulnerabilities are introduced with these applications?
Another risk associated with file sharing is that copyrighted materials could be illegally shared without the proper permissions or licenses in place. This can lead to legal trouble if authorities discover it and prosecute those responsible. In addition, some files contain sensitive personal information such as social security numbers and financial account details; if this information were leaked through a breach in a file sharing network it would pose an even greater risk of identity theft and fraud.
Finally, there is also the possibility that unauthorized third parties will monitor communications on these networks for their own purposes (e.g., industrial espionage). It’s important for users of these applications to understand the risks associated with them so that they can take steps to protect themselves from any potential harm that might arise from using them inappropriately or unintentionally exposing their private data during conversations or file transfers.