Arab News points to the problem of ‘leeching’ WiFi access in Saudi Arabia. Apparently, there’s a new device out there—some sort of amplified antenna—that allows unauthorized access to unsecured networks. The article says that most Saudis with wireless networks don’t know how to secure them. I see the same problem in the US, though I’m not aware of the new device.
Internet freeloaders have a field day with new device
Hasan Hatrash I Arab NewsJEDDAH: Internet surfers across the city are picking up insecure wireless networks thanks to the widespread availability of a new and affordable signal-boosting WIFI adapter.
The adapter, which is in extremely high demand, hunts for Internet signals around a 500-meter circumference, making it fairly easy for leech-users to pick up signals in their vicinities.
Internet freeloaders used to previously carry their laptops and roam a neighborhood looking for Internet signals from a wireless home adapter, which has a narrow range. Now, thanks to this new device, freeloaders can pick up wireless signals in their neighborhood while sitting in the comfort of their homes and shops.
Ahmad Khalil, a computer shop worker at Khaled ibn Waleed Street, said the device, which costs around SR200, is in high demand. “The main purpose of the device is to increase the limit of the wireless Internet network, but many people use it to leech over unsecured signals in their localities,” he said.
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September:01:2008 - 11:00
The device is a simple antenna with an extended range. You can even make your own if you’re technically savvy.
September:01:2008 - 11:00
Why is “leeching” Wi Fi considered bad? As KSA struggles to enter a new economic paradigm, aren’t all methods for people to get online and do more online good? I think we should all have the right to have our Wi Fi hotspots open for communal use…
September:01:2008 - 11:00
In the US, leeching WiFi access is a crime, punishable by fine, jail, or both. It is defined as unauthorized access to a network (which it clearly is) and is considered a threat to the network. Savvy leechers can compromise a network and use it to both commit and cover other crimes. A quick Google shows it’s a crime not only in the US, but also the UK and Spain… I suspect there’s a similar EU law. Obviously, in this instance, there’s a Saudi law.
September:01:2008 - 11:00
Boyd R. Jones:
The term ‘leeching’ presumes that the owner of the wi-fi network has not given permission for use of his bandwidth, hence the need for a law.
September:01:2008 - 11:00
Anti-leeching may be a law, but it is a silly law. One should have the right to share access.
September:01:2008 - 11:00
The laws only prohibit unauthorized access. If you own a WiFi setup, you can give permission to anyone you like.