Although torrent downloads are usually linked to illegal content, the truth is that you can download Linux distributions, computer programs, music or movies legally. There is copyright-free content that is distributed through this medium. Now, that doesn’t mean you might have security issues, so it’s a good idea to be aware of the risks when downloading torrent files and take action.
Download malware
The first clear risk of downloading torrent files is inadvertently downloading malware. That Linux distribution or application you are downloading may be fake and may have been put there simply to sneak in some kind of virus. By downloading the content, you would be bringing malicious software onto your computer.
It is a method through which keyloggers, ransomware, Trojans can sneak in… This can happen especially if you are going to download pirated content, since that is where hackers take advantage to maliciously modify the files and infect the victims’ computers.
Theft of data and passwords
Those malicious files that they can download could be used to steal passwords or personal information. Hackers are constantly looking for ways to compromise privacy and collect data of all kinds, and this of course includes passwords.
A clear example is if the torrent file you are downloading contains a keylogger. What this type of malware does is record all the keystrokes you make. This will allow an attacker to steal usernames and passwords to access social networks, email, etc.
Download fake programs or files
You should also be aware of the risk of downloading a program or file that is actually fake. While that doesn’t necessarily mean you have malware, what you’re downloading may be very different from what you expect. For example, if you’re downloading an open source image-editing application, someone may have uploaded another program that has nothing to do with it.
This can affect the performance of the computer, since you could not make normal use of that application. It could even affect other programs that you already have installed, so you should act as soon as possible and avoid downloading software that could be fake.
They can know your IP
You should also keep in mind that when you download torrent files you are connecting to a P2P network. Basically it is a series of devices that share files. This means that our public IP address can be exposed and know personal information about us, such as the real geographic location.
This issue will cause your privacy to be compromised. After all, with the IP address they will be able to get a lot of information and track you when you download a torrent.
How to avoid attacks
After explaining what the main risks of downloading torrents are, we are going to give some tips to avoid attacks. The objective is to download files without compromising the security of the device, but maintaining our privacy at all times and not exposing personal information.
Use a good antivirus
Something essential is to have security programs. A good antivirus will help you prevent the entry of malicious software by detecting possible files that are going to be a danger. Also, if you have already downloaded some malware inadvertently, it will also help you detect and remove it as soon as possible.
There are many options available, both free and paid. You should always choose one that works properly and protects you without problems on the network. Alternatives like Windows Defender, Bitdefender or Avast are widely used and work well. They will allow you to avoid attacks if you download torrents or any file from the network.
Keep everything updated
Of course, another point to take into account is the importance of having everything correctly updated. This includes the operating system, but also the torrent downloader or any software you use. In this way you will correct problems and also achieve optimal performance.
Download only trusted content
Whenever you are going to download something from the Internet, it is important that you verify that it is legitimate content and not a scam. You can see comments from other users, for example. This will help you prevent files that have actually been uploaded from spreading a virus to anyone who downloads them.
Normally the download programs, the pages where the torrent is, have detailed information. There you can see the comments of other users to find possible irregularities and avoid downloading files that pose a security risk.
Use VPN
To prevent your IP address from being leaked when downloading torrents, there is nothing better than using a good vpn. What this type of program does is encrypt the connection and hide personal data such as the IP. It is also very interesting to connect to public networks that can be dangerous.
Here you will also find many options available to install a VPN. There are free and paid ones. However, the latter are the most reliable, the ones that really guarantee your privacy and no problems will arise. Optiocrastns like NordVPN or ExpressVPN work great.
Common sense
But if there is something essential to download torrent files safely and without problems, it is common sense. Hackers, in most cases, are going to need us to make a mistake. For example, downloading a document from a dangerous site.
So what you should do is avoid making mistakes of this type. This way you will reduce the risk of being attacked by introducing Trojans, keyloggers or any other variety of malware that infects your system.
In short, as you have seen, there are certain risks when downloading torrents. It is important that you take action and do not fall into the trap if you are going to download a file. Protecting the equipment, its security and privacy is essential.