How risky is it to download comic book torrents?

I've been doing some research and it's really hard to tell. Some people say there's not much to worry about. While others say that you should download protectors otherwise, your internet providers can see and will report each and everytime you download a torrent. So...which fact is true? What happens if you download torrents and DON'T have those protective softwares or whatever? Does downloading comic book torrents lead to the same risks as other torrents (movies for example)? Are there consequences if you don't seed? Do the torrent site owners track your IP Address? So which is it: Nothing worth worrying over. Or something to avoid at all cost? Is it REALLY that big of a deal? Or are people on the internet just paranoid?

You won't believe it but, I'm only asking because my friend has been talking about doing it non stop. I'd hate to see him get in trouble.