<p>I've been afraid of downloading anything using the dorm network ever since I moved in. Is it safe to download from file sharing websites such as Rapid Share, Badongo, File Factory, etc.? As for bit torrent, is it monitored and prohibited by ResComp regardless of its content? (I want download shows that are not copyrighted in the US)
Also for Airbear, the free wifi signal on campus, is it traceable if I use that to download?</p>
<p>i think those are safe.. rapidshare, bondongo, megaupload, etc.. i think.. not 100%sure though</p>
<p>..yeah RS, Badongo, FF, MU are alright. Just be sure what you're downloading (i.e. don't download .rar/.zip files without knowing what they are).</p>
<p>Bittorrent can be monitored by them, bittorents are not prohibited, but the material that you download (illegally shared movies/musics) may be.</p>
<p>You should just wait till DC++ works again. Supposedly it's not traceable and it doesn't contribute to your 8 gb limit.</p>
<p>what's DC++?</p>
<p>ResComp is not allowed to actively monitor any of the content you d/l or else they lose their common carrier status (which would be a HUGE headache for a cash strapped public university). The only way you can get caught is if someone NOT from teh university, ie the RIAA or MPAA catches you.</p>
<p>The only thing which they actively enforce is your 8gb limit. Otherwise, the connection is the same as a home internet connection.</p>
<p>Now, if the RIAA and MPAA sues, then Berkeley is fully cooperative with them. This can be a problem, but the same applies with your home internet connection.</p>
<p>So as long as RIAA and MPAA stay out of the way, I am safe to use BitTorrent and other file sharing programs? Don't those agencies pay special attention to university students? I watched this ResComp presentation that stated a long list of consequences and fines of downloading illegally. If I use BitTorrent to download music and shows that are not copyrighted in the United States (i.e. fresh subbed anime episodes), what harm will that do?</p>
<p>You're probably safe then - just watch that 8GB limit. If you download a 4GB DVD and your share ratio is 1.000, you've just reached the limit!</p>
<p>Yeah - the MPAA and RIAA tend to target college students, but they can really target anyone they wish - it's really the same all-around once you get targeted. Only difference is that some universities (eg. Harvard) refuse to cooperate. They don't sue you - you don't get shut down.</p>
<p>Their videos make it seem very bad, but that's because the students aren't willing / don't have the resources to fight the supposed "extortions." The MPAA/RIAA lawsuits are dwindling fast these days though, since they've basically lost all of them in which someone took the fight. Main problem is - if you were to fight one of those, it'd be half a decade and half a million before you win on principle. Then, you have to sue for damages, etc. Extortion at its worst...</p>