Piggybacking

Definition

Piggybacking refers to accessing a wireless internet connection by bringing one's own computer within the range of another's wireless connection, and using that service without the subscriber's explicit permission or knowledge. It is a legally and ethically controversial practice, with laws that vary in jurisdictions around the world. While completely outlawed in some jurisdictions, it is permitted in others.

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Doing so invites a number of problems: Service violations: You may exceed the number of connections permitted by your internet service provider. Bandwidth shortages: Users piggybacking on your internet connection might use up your bandwidth and slow your connection. Abuse by malicious users: Users piggybacking on your internet connection might engage in illegal activity that will be traced to you. Monitoring of your activity: Malicious users may be able to monitor your internet activity and steal passwords and other sensitive information. Direct attack on your computer: Malicious users may be able to access files on your computer, install spyware and other malicious programs, or take control of your computer.

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A customer of a business providing hotspot service, such as a hotel or café, is generally not considered to be piggybacking, though non-customers or those outside the premises may be. Many such locations provide wireless internet access as a courtesy to their patrons, either with or without an extra charge, or simply to draw people to the area.

Piggybacking is distinct from war driving, which involves only the logging or mapping of the existence of Internet access points.

See also

• Electronic piggybacking
• Physical piggybacking
• Piggyback attack
• Tailgating