Is it okay if I use an unsecured network?

Question

I live in an apartment. One day, I accidentally found an open WiFi network, when my laptop automatically connected to it.

Is it legal to use this network? I have no idea who owns this network, but it is always available. I just use it for checking Facebook, sports news, and generally light stuff, no heavy downloads.

Is it against the law if I keep on using this network? I don't think so because-

1) I'm not using it for any illegal purpose.
2) I'm not using it for heavy downloads, just light surfing on my browser and android phone.
3) If the neighbour didn't lock his network, it means he doesn't care if anyone uses it.
4) I'm not using the network to steal his files and identity or something.
Please give me your opinions.

Also, can my neighbour tell if I'm using it or not? If yes, can he look into my history and passwords?

Answer 1

if the neighbor has not locked his network and is running continuously ,and if you get that line usable , and you are using it, it is not your fault. anyway ,if you traced in his line and if he claims that you are using his line, it might get worse ,if his claim is with legal aspect, you will be put in trouble, though you might say you have been using for light purposes, he or the provider may ask for certain payment, for usage, which could be a small to big amount ,depending upon how much they judge ,you have been using the other line.To be safe , report this to the service provider or your neighbor, instead of getting caught like a criminal. ---Experience tells this.

Answer 2

I don't believe that it is illegal to do so, if they have left it unsecure. With that being said, I wouldn't suggest connecting to a unsecure network for these reasons:



1) No wireless security. Information that is being sent from your computer to the wireless router may not be encrypted, and this information (e.g. passwords) may be obtained by intruders by sniffing the packets.



2) Some of these unsecure networks may actually be a trap setup by somebody to lure you onto the network in order to get your private information.

Answer 3

unsecured network can bring virus in your computer as well as other person can access your computer data.