I've always wondered if posting rom download, links to the download or even just clicking the download link is illegal? Also, if we discuss things involving roms or the use of roms would otherwise be illegal too?
Discussing roms its not illegal, it would be classed as free speech in most countries around the world. As for downloading roms it depends on the content of the rom, theirs plenty of public domain / homebrew roms which have been released for free, likewise even some old games from years gone by have roms which have been released on the internet by developers.
How do I know if the person hosting the rom isn't copying roms from other people or get in trouble from the game companies for hosting roms even though its for free?