One of the first and very noticeable features of cell phones is ringtones, which are easily available over the net. However the question lies is, whether they are free or charged? You usually search of websites that let you download ringtones for free, and there are websites that let you do that. But honestly, not all websites allow downloading for free. There are hidden costs charged to them, which you might notice only after you've got your phone bill or a certain amount has been deducted from your balance.

Websites usually display a lot of ringtones, some of which are free and some of which are not. The ones that are charged, generally, are a form of royalty that the website has to pay to the artist for the songs. Many websites have three to four pages as a part of their process to get the ringtones. One of those pages might include a long list of the terms and conditions, which, majority of the times, contains the word 'subscription' and service pricing. So when we unintentionally, ignore these terms and click on "I agree", the blame of being charged is very conveniently shifted from the ringtone supplier to the customer.

Next is the page which asks us of our mobile number, which we very happily type in, in the excitement of getting our so called 'FREE' ringtone, which actually is charged. And then we have no choice but to either pay the money or lodge complain and by the time things get back to square one, the damage has already been caused. So it is always better to read the text displayed on the websites from where you are going to download the ringtones.

Some of the things that you should keep in mind before downloading free ringtones: -

?Read reviews of the websites offering free ringtones and make a wise choice.

?Most of the popular music is copyright protected, any use of the music, such as in free ringtones, requires royalties to be paid to the artist, make sure that the website mention that on their pages.

?Do not mention your credit card number to any of the websites, even if they are legitimate sites, it might be risky.

?Make sure that the website you visit is free of virus, because if you avoid this little advice, the virus might not only enter your computer hard drive but also your phone, which would happen while transferring the ringtone from the computer to your phone. Now, that would be a two-in-one damage for you.

Apart from downloading ringtones from the websites, there are other legal options too of getting ringtones. You can download ringtones by getting your GPRS connection activated, this way; you can be worry-free about viruses and worms. Another beneficial way would be to transfer ringtones from your friend's or relative's cell phone via Bluetooth or infrared. Even tough you can adopt these methods for getting free ringtones; the above mentioned list of factors to be kept in mind should not be avoided.