What are the dangers if any of UTorrent

[Mudflap]

Hey gang!
I am just wondering what if any dangers there are by using the U Torrent program aside from unknowingly downloading a virus. I am aware of how to protect myself against viruses and stuff etc. BUT I am wondering about doing other stuff online while U Torrent is running in the background? Any thoughts or advice for me on this issue? Thanks in advance.
Mudflap

[fink]

Version 1.6.474 of Utorrent (and possibly earlier ones) was open to an exploit..

http://www.securiteam.com/exploits/5PP0G0UKKW.html

But apparently it was patched...

http://www.bestsecuritytips.com/news...toryid+157.htm

Any program could be vulnerable to never ending exploits but the best anyone can do is to practice safe computing habits and making sure you always have the latest version of any software that could be attacked.

Downloading using torrents isn't exactly top of the list when it comes to safe computing because of, as you are aware, of viruses and trojans but if you're going to do it then make sure you run a good updated a/v, a good antispy scanner, a firewall and don't run any programs or exe type files you might download.

Double check the extension of anything you download to make sure it isn't faked

eg-

music.mp3                 .exe

and if you aren't sure check it online with this multiscanner...

http://www.virustotal.com/

[Broni]

When using torrents:
1. Scan EVERY SINGLE downloaded file with your AV.
2. Scan EVERY SINGLE downloaded file with your AV.
3. Scan EVERY SINGLE downloaded file with your AV.

[HAN]

Don't forget the legal issues too. Although the Bit Torrent creators and supporters are trying to paint a law abiding picture for Torrent users, most still use it to download pirated material. I've also read somewhere that the RIAA and MPAA (the USA recording and movie trade groups) can trace Torrent downloads. Personally I doubt it but who knows?

[Broni]

I've also read somewhere that the RIAA and MPAA (the USA recording and movie trade groups) can trace Torrent downloads. Personally I doubt it but who knows?

They actually can, by attaching so called "tracker" to the file.
My friend recently received an email from Comcast about copyright violation.
They listed exact torrent, file name, date, etc.
I assume some company attached a tracker to the file in question, and then, they complained to Comcast.

[Train]

More likely, attached the tracker, joined the group he was in and let him download it.

There way of getting around the firewall and router bit.