When using a laptop in a free hotspot can other users somehow intercept your transmissions

Depends on the hotspot. If it is not running any security (WEP/WPA), then definitely. WEP has also been crackable for years, and WPA has been cracked, although i don't think it is script kiddy crackable yet....

but would they? probably not. Even on an unsecured network, its not exaclt easy to intercept another computers transmissions. Its not like they open a link and all of a sudden whetever you're looking at pops up.

The main concern I would have is when hooking up to a hotspot, is your basically on a LAN with other users, who, if your computer is unsecure, will most likely be able to see your computer and possibly access it. That is unless the hotspots owner has set it up to isolate wireless users from each other.

If they could be bothered yes. And you don't really need to be in a free hotspot for that to happen by the way.

I think you would be suprised. It isn't too hard these days....script kiddy apps are built for people to do exactly this.

I think a little common sense is required here. Your local Maccas free hotspot is more than likely fine. Somewhere in the middle of Perth/Freo would still be ok...... but I would tend to avoid doing anything that involved usernames and passwords.

Oh, and make sure you have Windows Firewall / Zonealarm <insert software firewall of choice> is installed/turned on.

Why does anyone care?

1. Don't carry sensitive information around on portable devices.
2. Don't enter your banks login and password on some strange network you connect to.
3. Load as much horse porn onto other peoples computers before they do it to you.

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[COLOR="Gray"]550Nm off a 2L... Just wish it was in the dak dak...[/COLOR]

4. Be a cool dude and buy a mac, most of these problems disappear

Want me to load some horse porn on your Mac Dan?

You know, just to keep you in the cool loop.

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[COLOR="Gray"]550Nm off a 2L... Just wish it was in the dak dak...[/COLOR]

No thanks John. Horse porn is for sickos.


I am more into donkeys.