RE: WIRELESS THEFT

["Greg van der Gaast" <greg.van.der.gaast () ordina nl>]

I don't see how inadvertently receiving *any* kind of signal could be
considered theft. Actually making use of that signal is a somewhat
different yet difficult issue. An Internet connection is being sent
through your home where you can receive it. Considering this is open
Internet access being given out for free (albeit for another audience) I
think it'd be difficult to make a case making you tapping into it
illegal. If someone tries to place such far-fetched charges you could
counter-sue that they are pushing their Internet infrastructure through
your residence.

If you're worried, don't use the network connection. But frankly I think
it'd be hard to fight legally, it's a free service anyway, chances are
practically null that they'll ever notice, and I doubt they have the
equipment/knowhow to locate you in the first place.

In other words, have fun!

Greg van der Gaast
Ordina Public West
Security Services  

-----Oorspronkelijk bericht-----
Van: Amit P. Gandre [mailto:agandre () cise ufl edu] 
Verzonden: Tuesday, October 15, 2002 11:27 PM
Aan: security-basics () securityfocus com
Onderwerp: WIRELESS THEFT

Hi
        Can someone tell me if there are any laws regarding wireless
theft?

        One of the apartment complexes near mine has free wireless
connections offered to their residents. Now, my computer happens to
catch
that signal.

        Now, is that illegal. If so, how should I go about dealing with
this issue.

Amit