19 November 2007
A majority of British internet users have admitted to 'piggybacking' onto other people's wireless connections, according to a security firm.
Sophos' research found that 54% of users had performed the illegal manoeuvre, which the firm says highlights the need for consumers to better secure their wireless home networks.
Even using a password or simple encryption can eradicate the problem, Sophos added.
Senior Technology Consultant at the firm Graham Cluley said: "Stealing Wi-Fi internet access may feel like a victimless crime, but it deprives ISPs of revenue.
"If you've hopped onto your next door neighbour's wireless broadband connection to illegally download movies and music from the web, chances are you are also slowing down their internet access and impacting on their download limit."
Mr Cluley also pointed out the potential security danger inherent in home wireless networks, with fraudsters able to gain access to confidential user information through piggybacking.
"They may even be able to infect your computer with malware designed to commit identity theft," he added.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
Content for the uSwitch.com market news service is provided by a third party, Adfero Ltd. Whilst uSwitch.com makes reasonable efforts to check the reliability of this content, uSwitch.com does not guarantee the accuracy thereof or endorse the views or opinions given by Adfero Ltd, unless expressly stated otherwise.