Users who have a complete copy of the file and continue to upload it to others.
A "table of contents" used to verify that every small piece of the file downloaded from a peer is authentic and uncorrupted. 3. The P2P Ecosystem: Seeders and Leechers
Torrent files, especially from public sites, are frequent vectors for malware, spyware, and adware hidden within "fake" or mislabeled files.
When torrenting, your IP address is visible to everyone else in the "swarm." Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and copyright agencies often monitor these swarms.
The BitTorrent technology itself is entirely legal and used for legitimate purposes like distributing Linux distributions. However, using it to share copyrighted material without permission can lead to fines, lawsuits, or criminal penalties. 5. Best Practices for Safe Use