"Default" Wireless

[theGAPkid]

Whilst I realise that connecting to random wireless networks can be risky, I thought I'd ask this question anyhow!

I'm living in my new house for the next week or so but I haven't officially moved in. As such, I have no internet, phone, TV etc. . .

However, on starting my macbook up, I noticed that aside from the 2 password protected wireless signals, there was also a third, called default and non-password protected. As you can guess, Im currently writing this attached to the network but my question is; is this illegal?

I know well enough to not access bank accounts and other personal sites, but for general browsing and passing of time over the next week or so, do you reckon its ok?

Im in a UK city btw which is why there is part of me wondering whether it is public wireless. . .

 

[GimmeSlack12]

Yes, it is illegal. Yes, technically, you can get in trouble. No, it is not likely you'll get in trouble. "Default" is generally the SSID for wifi routers that no one has properly configured (or put a password on).

 

[K3mp]

I don't think it is illegal if there is no password. If there is a password that is a different story.

 

[OutThere]

Chances are if the person who set it up didn't know/care to change the name from Default or put a password on it, they won't notice if you're using it for a week. Just don't clog up their connection by downloading big files or do anything illegal and you shouldn't have to worry.

 

[GoCubsGo]

I don't think it is illegal if there is no password. If there is a password that is a different story.

Chances are if the person who set it up didn't know/care to change the name from Default or put a password on it, they won't notice if you're using it for a week. Just don't clog up their connection by downloading big files or do anything illegal and you shouldn't have to worry.

Just because you're too stupid to protect yourself by not using a password or using the default password does not make leeching off someone else's internet lawful. Perhaps the law is loosely stated in these cases, but it is never ok. Not even if you just use it "a little".

Use it but don't do anything illegal? By using it I believe you're already doing something illegal.

Unfortunately no matter what anyone says the OP will do as she/he wishes.

Public wireless would be fairly easy to identify I'd think (hope).