Are you one of the few generous individuals who intentionally share their home or office WiFi networks to anyone in range? Well then, congratulations and thanks! We’re in the same boat. I’m also fond of sharing my home WiFi network with friends and neighbors—if they are within range, that is. But I do encrypt my data with WEP (and not WPA, so I can have better compatibility with older devices), and just share the key with those who need to connect. Some people are bold enough to just keep their WiFi hotspots open, without any encryption.

Those that do this intentionally, however, tend to think of interesting ways to identify their wireless networks, for the benefit of those who stumble upon the connection. Some networks are named “Use sparingly,” or “Free,” or “Email me at (email address here),” or “Do not abuse!” This is to tell neighbors and other people would know the network is free, but users should not abuse access by downloading very large files or doing illegal activity.

Most, however, are not aware that they’re freely sharing their Internet connection to all in range. And these are the people whose networks are named “Default,” or “Linksys,” or any other popular WiFi gear brand.