Do you ever need to check your e-mail or Google a fact, but either you’re internet isn’t working or you’re not at home? Is the next step to see if you can catch Wi-Fi that doesn’t have a password? Everyone does it, but did you know it’s a crime? Wi-Fi crimes, also known as piggybacking, “war-driving,” or Wi-Fi tapping, are one of the newest internet crimes. Driving around trying to find someone else’s Wi-Fi connection, until you can access the internet without paying for it is a serious offense. Unfortunately, in a recent survey it was discovered that 54% of people admit to using someone else’s Wi-Fi connection without their permission, and the people who won’t admit to it would probably greatly increase this number.
There are ethical implications and opportunities for illegal activity. By stealing someone’s internet connection, you are slowing down their connection, you are not paying for the service you are receiving, and you are making your own computer vulnerable to other people who could access your content. Police are concerned because unsecured networks or wireless connections without passwords can be used for identity theft, since all passwords and credit card numbers are easily hacked. They also consider it a serious offense because anyone could download pornographic or other illegal materials without being caught, since only the Wi-Fi account holder can be traced. Eleven people have already been arrested for the seemingly harmless internet crime.
Next time you are setting up a wireless network, consider protecting yourself and add a password.
For further explanation see this article:
http://www.securityfocus.com/columnists/237
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