Beware, File Sharing in College Can Be Dangerous

Co-Ed Magazine has an article about a recent student who was sued for sharing music. His error: sharing his music and giving it to everyine in his frat house. His fine: $10,000.

Could this be you? Almost certainly. That is, if you share. How can you avoid the problem?

Don’t share music. Sure, the temptation is there, but there are a lot of great alternatives. For example, you can listen to streamed music via Shoutcast. Your favorite local radio station probably streams its songs on the Internet as well. You might not be able to take the stream with you to the library, but if you’re on the Internet and have a laptop handy, this is the safest way out.

If you do “borrow” music. Look for free opportunities. Many artists will offer sample MP3s through their website. On Facebook, an Apple Students group has millions of members and occasionally offers free song giveaways as well as discounts on pretty good Apple gear.

And if that still doesn’t satisfy you: Don’t be the hub for your friends’ music. Do it for yourself and don’t do anyone any favors. Configure your client so that you’re not participating in any illegal sharing. Download infrequently. Don’t stay connected when you’re not at the computer. And if you like the music you’ve tried out, buy it.