Is using a neighbor's WiFi illegal??

Question

I get a good signal from one of my neighbor's wireless networks, so I use it when I take my laptop outside or into a room that doesn't have a DSL connection. Is this illegal? If so, what are the consequences?

Answer 1

If you would like to use your neighbor's WiFi connection, I would suggest that you ask them for permission to do so first.

Also, if it's unencrypted and you're able to access it, perhaps you should let them know.

Answer 2

From what I know, there are no laws against it at this time.  But it isn't secure for either you or your neighbor.  Others can get on as well and have access to any computers connected to it.

Answer 3

If you don't have their permission? Yes, it is illegal.

Consequences vary, but for example: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/londo...

Answer 4

To my knowledge, I believe that if you use it without their permission it would be illegal, although laws may vary in different countries.

Answer 5

hey there

im in the uk and i use my neighbours wi-fi all the time with out their knowledge or permission for the past 5 months i use it all the time and i have had no problems with police or anything like that

my neighbours are mean people anyway since they've moved in last year they hae caused alot of problems so if i can get free internet from them i take it as pay back :D

i would only say watch how you use it, i download stuff sometimes from limewire but only quite small files and i try not to stay online for lenghty periods of time (no more than 3 hours or so)

as for legality i think that if the network signal is unsecure then it isn't illegal as anyone can access that network quite easily and some laptops do automatically with the way its network manager is set as default, obviously hacking a secure network is different because that requires more knowledge of computers and actual hacking which is illegal

i read the link provided by the first answerer the suspiscion arose when he was outside with his laptop, i'm inside so they can't see me :D, you mentioned you're outside so i'd be careful where you are so that you aren't caught in case it is illegal :D

Answer 6

not illegal,  the consequences are going to happen when your neighbor finds out before you tell them.  Remember, you have to live next to them.  Chances are strong that if you tell them they will let you use it anyways and then you look good and respectful to them.

Answer 7

It is. Apparently, someone was fined $250 for it. Police also say you could be put up in jail for 1 year if caught doing it.