My new wireless enabled lap top can pick up other peoples networks in my appartment block.
I know it is possible to connect to these thus removing my need to buy a router and a broadband connection.
I do not think it is illegal to do this but is it morally OK?
It won't cost the network owner anything so what is the etiquette around these situations?
2007-01-30 21:20:27 · 3 answers · asked by Bush 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Since it doesn't harm the owner in any way (other than possibly slowing down his network *fractionally*), then I'm not sure there is a moral issue. The radio link is "out there;" you didn't ask for it to be put out there, and you're not responsible for encrypting it. In the U.S., it's legal to use anything that's out on the public airwaves; likewise, if your computer is transmitting legally, it's not your responsibility to keep it from "talking" to his wireless router - in fact, there's nothing you can do to prevent it, other than designating a router of your own for your computer to use.
2007-01-30 22:55:54 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Personally I think it is fine. Why? Well if you don't care and haven't taken the time to encrypt your network then you obviously don't care who accesses it. It is a free connection use it! When they (the owners of the router) deem you and others a security risk they will encrypt.
2007-01-31 03:19:13 · answer #2 · answered by Ole Charlie 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I consider it inappropriate. The people are paying for the connection, and if you use it, it will slow down the service for the people who bought it.
2007-01-31 15:12:25 · answer #3 · answered by drshorty 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋