NYT: Growth of Wireless Internet Opens New Path for Thieves

Growth of Wireless Internet Opens New Path for Thieves
By SETH SCHIESEL

Published: March 19, 2005


The spread of the wireless data technology known as Wi-Fi has reshaped the way millions of Americans go online, letting them tap into high-speed Internet connections effortlessly at home and in many public places.

But every convenience has its cost. Federal and state law enforcement officials say sophisticated criminals have begun to use the unsecured Wi-Fi networks of unsuspecting consumers and businesses to help cover their tracks in cyberspace.

In the wired world, it was often difficult for lawbreakers to make themselves untraceable on the Internet. In the wireless world, with scores of open Wi-Fi networks in some neighborhoods, it could hardly be easier.

Law enforcement officials warn that such connections are being commandeered for child pornography, fraud, death threats and identity and credit card theft....


http://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/19/technology/19wifi.html?hp&ex=1111208400&en=f680ef1ec1a97a99&ei=5094&partner=homepage

right?

Everybody that cared to know, knew of this years ago.

Big problem for Big Bro however as wireless is coming to most neighborhoods near you, setup by users that know not of the safeguards required to protect their systems.

The "anti-Bro/libertarian" in me thinks this is a "good thing".

:)

get your lan behind a router or other hardware firewall, use a software firewall, and use WPA encryption.