Is it legal to use wifi networks that are not secure?

[Cass]

Wondering if it is legal to use wifi networks that are not secure?

If the networks are not secure, how are we to know that the 'owner' does not intend to allow others to use the network?

If we are in a public place does this make a difference vs. an apartment building?

What is and what is not illegal here?

Any ideas?

Thanks!

[loyalknight10]

I think it is illegal. I had heard of similar cases in EU countries like UK and Belgium. In some countries it is legal to browse on unsecured wireless networks, in others there are no laws against that, and in others it is punishable with fine or jail time.

[Cass]

I wonder if it would also make a difference if the amount of bandwidth used was factored in. For example, someone just checking their email once a day (very little bandwidth used and wifi owner would not be able to tell) to someone downloading movies all day long which would slow down the network...

[AmandaT]

This probably depends on how you are using the network.

If you gain access by legitimate means and for legal activities then all is well, but it you are gaining access to the unsecured network by means other than with the approval of the network's owner, and you aren't hijacking information for illegal purposes you face no real legal complications.

Most internet or computer crime isn't addressed unless a loss or identity theft occurs and the perpetrator is located.

[mdrchbld]

Wireless cards often scan for a connection until they have one. By that I mean if you leave it disconnected, it will eventually connect to an open router. It seems that it would be unfair to be charged for something you didnt know how to control.