Using other peoples wireless internet

[SizzleSquid]

Hi Everyone,

I am using my laptop and it sometimes connects on to other peoples Internet that live around my area. I have made some purchases using my debit card details and i was worried that whoever owns that Internet service will be able to see what I have bought and my card details. Is this true?

[198x]

It is slightly true.

It all depends if the host of the server has set up his PC/laptop to do this. There's certain software out there that can grab people's details who log onto your connection. Not every connection would be like this though but you never know who's got what .

But it is possible.

[fo3nix]

If you've used a secure site (with the padlock symbol), then they can't get your password or details.

However, they'll still be able to see what you're browsing, etc., if they choose to.

Note also that I believe it's illegal to do what you're doing anyway.

[barnet boy]

It is possible for an unscrupulous neighbour to set up a �honey trap� and deliberately leave their wireless internet connection open for others to use with the sole intention of stealing their private details.
Unlikely, but as 198x says, it's still possible.

[SizzleSquid]

thanx guys..im using my own from now on!

[Toureman]

There was something on TV the other day about this.

Criminals are parking up in suburban areas and with the right equipment are getting all sorts of details from people with wireless connections.

One of the favourites is to see when people are booking holidays online then breaking in to their houses while they are away.

[kwicky]

If a person suspects their wireless connection is being used by others they can look in the log file to see what sites have been visited by the intruder.