Wireless internet security question

[Harsky]

My sister has a laptop with a wifi adapter and she noticed in her apartment that there is an unprotected wireless connection that she can just connect to.

My question is, she is a light user and just checks emails and stuff but is it possible that browsing on an unprotected connection makes her details at risk or worse?

 

[HyoImowano]

It's unlikely but yes. The probable situation is that the people running the access point just don't know what they're doing. The less probable situation is that the person running it is doing so hoping to snag somebody's info. I use open wireless for stuff all the time and haven't had any problems yet.

 

[Harsky]

It's unlikely but yes. The probable situation is that the people running the access point just don't know what they're doing. The less probable situation is that the person running it is doing so hoping to snag somebody's info. I use open wireless for stuff all the time and haven't had any problems yet.

Is there a way they can be protected?

 

[ndsdave]

When it comes to jumping onto other peoples unsecured networks, you need to be careful. It would be a fair assumption that they don't have any idea about securing their wireless connection - and you can surf at your leisure! But, once you jump onto a network you really open yourself up to viruses etc... Who knows how many people are having a dip at this unsecured connection! Maybe 1,2,3,4 or 10. Who knows if the other pc's are infected with trojans, viruses etc. If your anti virus protection etc... is up to scratch - it's probably not going to give you too much grief.

As HyoImowano suggested, it may also be a front to gain unauthorized access to a pc. A suite like Kaspersky or similar may minimize the risk.

 

[SavageWaffle]

Well i use a unprotected wireless internet from my neighbors. No sure whos it is but works fine. Didnt have a problem, and i virus check EVERY day.

 

[Pigiot]

Yeah, it might be fine but not always safe. One downside is shopping online.. Your pretty much screwed their unlesss your willing to take the risk..