Esther Schindler wrote: > Writes sjvn: I used to run my Wi-Fi Access Points in open mode. No > more. It's not safe. Here's why. > http://www.itworld.com/security/83535/guard-your-wi-fi-your-own-sake > >> ...It turns out I'd run into a perfect storm of multiple problems, >> but one of those problems surprised me. My network was enduring a >> SYN attack... from a neighbor's malware-infected Windows PC. I was >> getting hit because they were, sometimes, using my open Wi-Fi AP >> (Access Point) to connect to the Internet....
I'm afraid that I have to agree, but for different reasons. It is no longer safe to run open wi-fi at your home. Even ignoring the technical issues, having open wi-fi could put you in an unwanted legal situation. If someone uses your open wi-fi for any illegal purpose, you will be drawn into the investigation. Miscreants are looking for open wi-fi to cover their tracks. If a trail leads back to your home net, you will be part of the investigation, one way or another. This isn't speculation, there have been cases in San Diego county where a homeowner has run open wi-fi and been drawn into criminal cases. Most often as the initial suspect. Fortunately the local high-tech crimes task force has enough clue to be able to (eventually) sort out the issues. That may not be the case in all jurisdictions, and still causes enough headaches to want to avoid the situation. Open wi-fi, like password-less "guest" accounts, anonymous FTP and TELNET, has become a victim Internet meets bad-guy. We're having to become less open, just because there *are* so many people out there that will take advantage of our charitable nature. --tep _______________________________________________ Discuss mailing list Discuss@lopsa.org http://lopsa.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/discuss This list provided by the League of Professional System Administrators http://lopsa.org/
