Interception of communications over unencrypted Wi-Fi networks is permissible

[ChrisSmolinski]

An Illinois federal district court recently analyzed the Wiretap Act as it applies to packet sniffing and held that "the interception of communications sent over unencrypted Wi-Fi networks" does not violate the statute.

"Unless and until Congress chooses to amend the Wiretap Act, the interception of communications sent over unencrypted Wi-Fi networks is permissible."

Full article: http://blog.simplejustice.us/2012/09/07/sharing-is-caring-for-starbucks-lawyers.aspx

[corq]

Excellent post Chris.

Public service announcement:
Please oh please secure your wifi routers, for so many more reasons than just this!

Also: if you're using public (free) wifi, use the 'https' (known as SSL) version of gmail and other communication websites, anytime you have to use them.

It's not guarantee of perfect privacy, but it keeps your communications fom being the attractive low hanging fruit of people looking for online transactions etc.

This goes for airport wifi while travelling, etc.

[redhat]

I will sight this as one primary reason I always shut wireless off.  I've gone so far as to pull wireless cards from enabled devices to prevent "leaks."

If you must have a wireless connection, encrypt it with the strongest level you have, and don't broadcast the SSID.

-Just my thoughts...Your mileage may vary.

+-RH