The Internet, a network of interconnected computer networks, provides a wealth of information for just about every use imaginable. Students can access relevant information regarding their courses, children can watch cartoons, businesses can conduct e-commerce transactions, and independent artists can promote their latest album. The multimedia aspect has attracted millions of visitors across the world to download the latest songs, albums, movies, ringtones, e-books, video games, software and much more. The temptation overwhelms most people since most of these items are available at the click of a mouse. Criminals understand the seductive effect these multimedia treasures create, which likely makes some salivate over the endless possibilities of stealing financial information and personal identifying documents. Internet users should take appropriate measures to protect their computers from these anonymous thieves. Internet users can regain their vanguard position against these phantom threats with a little technical know-how, a small collection of appropriate software and hardware, and the ability to use common sense. Viruses and worms Viruses and worms used to scare Internet users in recent decades; however, emerging threats continue to evolve with each technological advancement. Spyware, spam, and phishing scams have exploded in today's market. Viruses and worms still pose a real threat in cyberspace, as they can completely disrupt computer usage, depending on the infection. A virus is a small computer program that infects and replicates existing code. A complex virus can delete or corrupt existing files, change computer settings and cause the computer to crash. On the other side...... middle of paper ......with Peer-to-Peer file sharing: A resourceful website providing useful tips and information when using P2P file sharing software.Software Theft Federation: An anti-piracy organization aimed at protecting its members from Internet piracy. Copyright Theft Federation: UK-based anti-piracy organization aiming to reduce counterfeiting, copyright and trademark infringement. International Federation of the Phonographic Industry: international organization fighting piracy. was intended to protect the rights of record labels registered as part of their membership.Georgetown University: Where to legally download music, movies and software? : A resourceful article providing reliable and credible links to legal download platforms.University of South Florida; Download legally: a list of resources for legally downloading media files.