Firstly, I'd like to say that this post is very brief, and direct to the point. However, it is merely summarising the actual news story as it happened in Singapore. It did not give the whole article reported in newspapers. Secondly, although the source was referenced, it was not adequately referenced. Here are some websites that I have found, containing the news excerpt, and other reated stories:- http://www.itconsulting.com/news/singapore-misuse-crime-011707/
- http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/infotech/view_article.php?article_id=31954
- http://www.theage.com.au/news/Technology/Report-Singapore-teen-faces-3-years-jail-for-tapping-intoanothers-wireless-Internet/2006/11/11/1162661936948.html
- http://www.zdnetasia.com/news/security/0,39044215,61982282,00.htm
- This is a related post, which contains other examples of such cases:
- Here is a YouTube video regarding the above news story:
*Please view from 1:38-1:59
Next, the term 'Computer Misuse Act' was not clearly defined although it was stated in the article. Here are some references regarding the definition of 'Computer Misuse Act':
Here is a video from YouTube regarding the Computer Misuse Act:
The question posed at the end of the post is very intellectual in nature, and helps us think from various perspectives: legal, political, social (a minor was convicted). Although the question was a very good one (Who's responsibility to secure the home WIFI systems? Owner or Service Provider?), yet there were no suggestions on the part of the blogger concerned. It was 'left hanging' so to speak. Therefore, I would like to attempt to answer the question posed. In my opinion, HOME WiFi systems are the responsibility of the home owner. The Service Provider cannot, and should not be held responsible for breach of Wireless Network setup by a home user.
As a Wireless Internet consumer myself, I have noticed that harware manufacturers today, such as Aztech & Linksys, and many others, have made it simple enough for any home user to setup his or her 'Security Enabled' Wireless Network with very few & simple steps.
Linksys WRT54G - One of the most famous & Award-winning Wireless RoutersSome problems/issues that could be faced as to the innocence of one convicted under the Computer Misuse Act are such as a Wireless Network from others which is not security-enabled can be automatically accessed, unknowingly by a person who has his own Wireless Modem, thinking they are using their own line. They could be convicted, not knowing what they have done!
-Joel Vergis-
-Joel Vergis-
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