The risks are not theoretical. Older versions of software like SketchUp 2017 are highly vulnerable to security exploits because they have not been updated in nearly a decade. According to official warnings, as of May 2022, Trimble no longer offers the old free version for download because it is potentially dangerous. The official SketchUp forum moderators have directly stated that if you find a random download online, "You might end up with some additional files you don't expect or want. (Malware or possibly worse.)".
SketchUp 2017 was the last version to support specific older graphics card technologies, making it exceptionally stable on workstations that struggle with newer, more resource-intensive versions. It provides a fluid, responsive interface that allows for rapid modeling without lag. 2. Perpetual License Familiarity sketchup pro 2017 free download hot
The official free alternatives—SketchUp Free (web) and the Pro trial—offer safe, legal, and robust ways to create in 3D. For students, the educational license is a gold mine. The risks are not theoretical
If you need a powerful, offline 3D CAD program, you do not need to steal SketchUp Pro. There are highly capable open-source alternatives: The official SketchUp forum moderators have directly stated