What are the inherent risks for an individual who downloads or uses a 'free DDoS web tool'?

Individuals who download or use 'free DDoS web tools' face significant risks. Firstly, these tools are often laden with malware, viruses, or spyware designed to compromise the user's own computer, steal personal data, or turn their machine into a botnet participant for other attacks. Secondly, using such a tool directly involves the user in illegal activities, potentially exposing them to legal prosecution, fines, and imprisonment. Thirdly, many 'free' tools are scams that simply don't work, collect user information, or are designed to make the user an unwitting participant in a larger botnet controlled by the tool's creator.