someone in my neighbor has a sniffer and is watching all that is going on on my network. I know I could secure it but I let alot of the local college kids use it and with them coming and going I didn't want to have to issue passwords. I this person actually told me he is watch all the activity on my network with his sniffer and high powered antenna.
2006-08-17 01:58:54 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Computer Networking
He is not actually using my Net, but using his sniffer to watch and track what everyone else is doing on my network. If he was just using internet access I could care less. He say it is not illegal unless I security and he break the security.
2006-08-17 02:15:39 · update #1
That can be, especially the way you described. You could probably at least get a restraining order on the person. There haven't been many cases prosecuted in this area so there isn't much presidence. A basic rule of thumb, if someone goes out of their way to use your network (hiding in a car outside for hours, breaking encryption, etc.) it is illegal. Using an open wi-fi network without going to that extra trouble probably won't be successfully prosecuted.
2006-08-17 02:06:08 · answer #1 · answered by John J 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Actually ladies and gentlemen, I don't believe it is illegal. For one reason:
In the United States, anything broadcast over the air is free. free to use... free to receive, etc.
Then why is cable / satellite theft a crime?
ah, there enlies the detail, those companies are taking steps to 'protect' their information. Encryption, password for access, etc.
Until you protect your network in some way, I believe it to be free game.
A potential solution for you: learn their MAC addresses (all an individual student would have to do is send you an email from another PC). Create an inclusion list in your wireless router.
Another solution: find a range of frequencies that will interfere with his reception equipment. (From some old movie... ) First rule of the varda... give your enemy exactly what he wants. You want to listen? Listen to this! (Loud feedback noise) LOL
2006-08-17 03:27:10 · answer #2 · answered by howtoms 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Your giving open access to anybody that wants to use it? Some guy packet sniffing should be the least of your worries, who do you think is going to get the blame if some pedophile uses your connection to upload illegal pornography or some other illegal activity? I'd secure that badboy (or at least get it secure as possible) Turn off ssid broadcast , use mac filtering, use encryption, etc
2006-08-17 03:11:57 · answer #3 · answered by bogon 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd say it's illegal to have a sniffer, that's like hacking isn't it? But as far as someone using your wireless internet, anyone who picks up the signal can use it, as long as it's harmless and they're not checking out your info...
2006-08-17 02:04:50 · answer #4 · answered by Shining Ray of Light 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, very illegal. It is an invasion of privacy. It's no different than stealing cable or tapping someone's phone.
2006-08-17 03:49:06 · answer #5 · answered by ModelFlyerChick 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. There was a news item, recently, about a man who parked his truck outside a business to use their WiFi. HE was convicted of theft of services.
2006-08-17 02:03:46 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don’t necessarily think its illegal if you are giving people permission. WITHOUT permission, yes. it would be the same as stealing cable.
2006-08-17 02:04:35 · answer #7 · answered by mlb0328 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes (in most countries) - typically either theft or unauthorised computer usage.
If only people would properly secure their wi-fi networks! ;(
2006-08-17 02:03:09 · answer #8 · answered by srohan 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
yes it is illegal, because the can send virus and steal your info
2006-08-17 02:05:24 · answer #9 · answered by IndyMM 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
yes it is illegal if you dont have permission.
2006-08-17 02:03:38 · answer #10 · answered by Just Bored!! 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋