File Downloads and Uploads

What is FTP or File Downloads and Uploads?

FTP stands for File Transfer Protocol and is a useful way of transferring a file from one computer to another. There are Internet sites that distribute files freely for public use. A user can login to an account and request a file and then it is sent to his or her respective computer. An example of this is going to a site to download drivers (software programs) for a device on your computer. There are drivers for every type of hardware on the computer and sometimes you need to obtain a newer version. Often, the manufacturer provides this service. Some accounts can be accessed using an anonymous login. FTP has been around for a long time. ¹

Dangers:

The FTP does not use encryption when transmitting a user name and password. This makes your information vulnerable as it is transmitted across the Internet.

The content of the downloaded files is of significant concern. You should know what you are downloading. The file may contain a virus that infects your computer or may be illegal copies of software, music or movies. The content may be inappropriate because it is sexually explicit, violent or hateful. The content may be illegal as in the case of child pornography. NOTE: All child pornography is illegal. If you download or even just view child pornography online, you have a copy on your computer and you have broken the law. If you view such material by accident, read how to report the incident.

Copyright violations are being pursued by various industries. If you receive legal notification that you are in trouble see the site listed below, Talking to Your Children About Downloading Music. To find a list of relevant Copyright Laws and their explanations, see the NetMonkey site. The laws that are described apply to software, games, music, and movies both in digital and physical forms.

Resources:

¹The Matisse Glossary site www.matisse.net/files/glossary.htm
  Talking to Your Children About Downloading Music - A Parents Guide
    http://www.wiredsafety.org/law/copyrights/riaa/downloadingmusic_parryguide.html
  The NetMonkey Copyright Laws booklet
    http://campusdownloading.psu.edu/pdf/campusdownloading_booklet.pdf&task=section&id=4&Itemid=45