Using Wifi without permission can mean ten years in the slammer

ARS TECHNICA and Buzz Out Loud is reporting about the story of a man, Sam Peterson, who was surfing the net on an open wifi network outside a cafe - without buying anything.

According to the good folks at BOL, under Michigan law it is 10 years and a large fine. Now, I do think this Peterson guy should go in and buy coffee out of sheer respect - and I do agree with the prosecution who gave a more sensible sentence for this crime, a $400 fine and 40 hours of community service. But it should be a reminder to not use an open wifi point without permission.

Nicely, here in Oakland County, we now have free wifi in select areas - and soon across the county.

Personal Note: I know this law was written for a different purpose - compromising computer networks and stealing things - and possibly, this law should be re-written to reflect the reality of todays' world. Check out this case where the law community is quite a bit behind the technology.