Be Wary Of "Free Wi-Fi"

[nsxt2000]

According to a report issued by the Better Business Bureau they warn consumers that some of the free Wi-Fi sites popping up may be fake. Today you find them at airports, hotels, coffee shops and other convenient locations.

While they may look official, hackers have been known to snag passwords, credit card numbers and other personal information. When you sign on those fake networks you are on the internet but you are getting there through someone else's computer. Whoever owns that computer can monitor your every click.

Here's how to protect yourself:
* Look for posted signs that tell you the precise name of the hotspot.
* Networks labeled Free Wi-Fi are the most suspect.
* Set your computer so that is asks you for permission before it connects to a new network.
* If your computer reports two networks with the identical name trust the one called a wireless network and not a "computer to computer" network.
* Turn off file sharing when you are on the road so passersby can't access your stored data.
* Don't store key passwords on your laptop.
* Don't do banking or online shopping while you're in a public area unless you are confident that the network is a secure one...and the guy behind you isn't reading over your shoulder.

A word to the wise from the Better Business Bureau.
-Mike S.

[nsxt2000]

Many cities sopnsored extensive plans for cheap or even free wireless internet available to all residents. Now cities are postponing, reconsidering or simply scuttling those plans. Companies established to help create the Wi-Fi world are re-evaluating their business model.

Not long ago companies promised cities that by building citywide Wi-Fi networks they could bridge the digital gap between rich and poor, foster development and improve communications for firefighters and police. Cities could recoup system cost by charging users a fee for home service, much like they do for water or other municipal functions. Some companies involved even offered to build the system for next to nothing in return for the right to sell subscriptions.

In addition to the vast scope of converting a city to Wi-Fi, there has been reluctance on the part of politicians and the public. While municipal Wi-Fi isn't dead, most have been put on hold for now. We will just have to wait to see if we can Wi-Fi around town in the future.
-Mike S.