Because mobile phones have been popping up every where, there's been a big market for mobile phone accessories, software and downloads like ringtones. A lot of websites are offering free ringtones but are they really free? And are they legal?

From the information I've gathered, websites can only offer "free ringtones" if: 1) The ringtones are made from royalty free music. In this case, don't expect to download Beyonce's latest hit has an MP3 ringtone. Royalty free music are oldies and folk songs, and 2) If it comes with purchase. Some free ringtones website will offer you free ringtones if you purchase a software from them. In this case, they pay for the royalty through the profit they gained from selling you the software.

Just some words of warning...If a website is offering the latest top of the chart hits as free ringtones, chances are, the website has illegally obtained the material and they're not paying any royalty for it. Be sure to check a website's terms and conditions or frequently asked section. If you need to download a software, be sure that you have an antivirus up. Some websites are only offering free ringtones so that they can upload a virus on your PC. Be sure to check the website thoroughly and read reviews about it.