The practice known as P2P sharing (i.e. peer-to-peer) has been widespread online for years.
Through this technique, in fact, it is possible to exchange large files without necessarily relying on the download. Although this practice is often combined with counterfeit softwarein reality it is completely legal in itself.
Regardless of whether the content downloaded is legal or not, P2P file sharing remains a real danger for users. In this context, in fact, they are often spread malware of various types that can also cause enormous damage to victims’ computers. In this sense, what could be the most widespread threats that characterize the P2P context?
Downloading files through peer-to-peer, for example, can confront users worm. We are talking about self-replicating software, capable of spreading quickly through file sharing networks.
Once a worm infects a computer, it can perform a series of harmful activitiescapable of ranging from DDoS attacks until the creation of backdoorcapable of opening the way to further malicious agents.
If worms can worry users of P2P platforms, it should however be considered that they are only thepunta dell’iceberg“.
Worms and more: all the risks of P2P file sharing
Even the infamous ones spyware can often be associated with sharing large files.
We are talking about malware capable of spying on victims, identifying sensitive information such as login credentials, password and much more. This malicious agent is often spread through seemingly harmless software, often purposely manipulated to become a “spy” at the service of cybercriminals.
Not least are the rootkit, which is malicious software designed to gain access to a computer system and hide from detection tools. These are often spread through P2P file sharing networks, combined with counterfeit software and video games.
Rootkits are particularly dangerous because they operate at privilege level highest possible, known as access, thus gaining complete control over the compromised system.
The environment examined, then, is also proposed as ideal for the proliferation of Adware. These malicious software, compared to the others listed so far, are more oriented towards advertising spam. They often affect browsers, through pop-up, banner o ads annoying which make online navigation almost completely impracticable.
Finally, the ransomware. These attacks aim to encrypt files on a device and to demand a ransom for their “return”. Although widespread mainly in the corporate context, it is not uncommon for ordinary users to come into contact with these malicious agents.
In fact, to avoid potential disasters, you should be very careful when practicing P2P file sharing. In addition to paying attention to the origin of what you download, it is good to adopt a system antivirus advanced, capable of identifying potential threats in good time.
