I was just wondering if it is actually ILLEGAL to connect to some one else's insecure wireleness network. i.e. you dont need a pass word or anything?
Can the host acutally see your computer logging onto his/her network or it just says a user has logged on the network and nothing happens after wards?
thx
2007-12-01 06:38:02 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Computer Networking
It's more of a question to come out in court, but basically, yes. It's kinda like putting your trash in your neighbor's can, with the argument of "well, he didn't lock it...it's not my fault my trash fell in!" If it's unsecured and you use their connection...it's questionable at best. If it's secured and you cracked in, it's against the law.
As far as logging, it's not like people have notifications pop up when someone logs in, much like you see with Yahoo instant messenger. If the person who's running the network is....um...very tight with their network, it's feasible that they're running scripts that will watch for traffic. However, if they're that involved with their network, it's a safe bet to say that you won't be able to accidentally get into their network. Most routers that I'm aware of provide some way to see what users are on the network in one form or another.
2007-12-01 06:50:35 · answer #1 · answered by chris d 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Well, I will throw one other thing at you, you do know when you connect to them they are also connected to YOU!....
Now not every "free" connection out there is run by stupid people (most may be) but there have already been arrests for people running "free" open connections who just wanted to steal your information.
Both activities are illegal in the US.. and just so you can see that "using" an open connection is illegal.. here are the state laws that deal with it.
OOPS here are the links
Wifi theft Laws
http://www.ncsl.org/programs/lis/cip/hacklaw.htm
N.Y. Penal Law § 156.00 to 156.50
§ 156.05 Unauthorized use of a computer.
A person is guilty of unauthorized use of a computer when he or she
knowingly uses, causes to be used, or accesses a computer, computer
service, or computer network without authorization.
Unauthorized use of a computer is a class A misdemeanor.
Just included the NY laws so you can see why it is illegal.
Check the list above for YOUR state. Some states have felony attachments for connecting to a "network" without permission.
security/wifi
http://www.infoworld.com/article/07/08/01/Web-apps-over-Wi-Fi-put-data-at-risk_1.html?source=NLC-WIR&cgd=2007-08-02
2007-12-01 08:43:13 · answer #2 · answered by Tracy L 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, if you are connected to someones network, the admin on that network can figure out the MAC address on the machine. If you do anything illegal, the logs on the router can point out your MAC address.
2007-12-01 06:48:04 · answer #3 · answered by Tapan 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is against the law. The router knows your computer name and if the ever check it while you are connected they could see your computer name, then call the cops/cable/phone/ISP and get you busted.
Yeah so no one running an unsecured netwiork is that smart, I know. Get your own anyway and play it safe.
AAS Comp Networking
2007-12-01 07:50:50 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think it's illegal, though if you cause something harmful to get on their system you would probably be liable, if it could be traced to you. But, really, if someone has an insecure network, they can't really make a fuss if you snatch a little free wi-fi!
2007-12-01 06:49:00 · answer #5 · answered by Karen J 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋