Risk 1 - Incompatibility and poor quality of music files
When going to download hip hop songs, you first need to make sure the music files the site provides are in a format that is compatible with your music player. The aspect of quality is harder to check, because not all sites allow a trial period or sample downloads. If you are familiar with music format characteristics and bit rates, it would be easier for you to get an idea of the quality; otherwise, you may find yourself in a situation, when you have to take a blind decision. Check what guarantees the site has as well as its overall reputation among the users.
Risk 2 - Copyright law infringement.
Often, unknowingly, you may download hip hop songs that are copyright protected. Technically, this means you commit a crime and can be punished for that. To avoid a lawsuit against you, steer clear of controversial peer-to-peer sites, known for a lot of illegal activities going on them. Check carefully what legality proofs the site can show.
Risk 3 - Adware and spyware in your computer.
File-sharing networks as well as some other free music sites make money by installing harmful adware and spyware on your PC in order to monitor your browsing habits. These applications considerably slow down your computer's performance and can even modify your system settings. Besides, it is like being watched all the time. Your privacy should not be traded for a few free downloads. If you just cannot avoid free sites, at least invest in a powerful anti adware and spyware program.
Risk 4 - Virus attacks.
Widespread on P2P sites, where you download files directly from another user's computer, virus attacks can easily destroy your computer and even affect your music player, like iPod or Zune, for instance. In case you are a regular user of such sites, advanced and constantly updated anti-virus software is vital for you.
Risk 5 - Mislabeled and corrupt files.
You think you are going to download a hip hop song of your choice, but what comes instead is a pornography material or something that might be insulting and inappropriate in a number of ways. These are not uncommon on file sharing networks as they bear no responsibility of what is being shared among their users. Corrupt and wrong files are even more common. Waste of time for adult users, such cases are alarming when a teen is faced with them. Little can be done here, except for avoiding P2P sites and talking to your kid about all the dangers of using these networks.
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