Thursday, February 12, 2009

Unsecured Network

I have been a fan of free wi-fi. Yes, I am a cheapskate. But this new technology has so much to offer such as mobility and convenience. Mostly, coffee shops and restaurants include this free wi-fi access in their services as part of marketing strategies. However, are these establishments aware of the implications of this free wi-fi they offer to the public?

Consider the following situation as an illustration of one of the many possibilities that can take place by virtue of free wi-fi services: a person uploads pornographic materials through the free wi-fi of a coffee shop. And it was subsequently tracked down by the law enforcement authorities that the IP address used was the IP address of the coffee shop. But when confronted, the coffee shop manager claims they do not have control over everyone who uses their wi-fi. Much so they do not even know who uses their wi-fi since it was merely an added service to improve their sales. How will it be then possible to prosecute the person who violated pornography laws and regulations?

The internet truly provides great things but at the same time, it seems that it may also provide ways for people to circumvent and violate laws without actually any accountability.

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