Control of file exchange of illicit materials in peer-to-peer environments
Michele Ferrazzano, Cesare Maioli · IRIS UNIMORE (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia) · 2011
The fast developments in the field of information technology have given rise to unprecedented economic and social changes on all sections of modern society, The integration of telecommunication and information systems, enabling the storage and transmission, regardless of distance, of all kinds of communication opened a whole range of new possibilities. These developments were boosted by the emergence of information super-highways and networks, including the Internet, through which virtually anybody will be able to have access to any electronic information service irrespective of where in the world he is located. By connecting to communication and information services users create a kind of common space, the cyberspace, which is used for legitimate purposes but may also be the subject of misuse. Thus a dark side [Walden, 2007]: the emergence of new types of crime as well as the commission of traditional crimes by means of new technologies. Moreover, the consequences of criminal behaviour can be more far-reaching than before because they are not restricted by geographical limitations or national boundaries. The simple example of the spread of detrimental computer viruses all over the world has provided proof of this reality. The implementation of technical measures to protect computer systems is needed concomitantly with legal measures to prevent and deter criminal behaviour which either committed against the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of computer systems and telecommunication networks or they consist of the use of such networks of their services to commit traditional offences. The transborder character of such offences, e.g. when committed through the Internet, is in conflict with the territoriality of national law enforcement authorities.