The Ethical Issues Surrounding Wi-Fi

Introduction In examining wireless-internet technologies (Wi-Fi), several ethical issues are exposed. While the unauthorized use of Wi-Fi is illegal in a few select cases, what is considered permissible still varies from state to state. What does not vary, however, is the fact that individuals are going to great lengths to locate unsecured wireless access points whether it is for their own benefit or the benefit of others. Neighbors are turning into hackers as unauthorized access is becoming more rampant. While the laws are still being developed, it is clear that there are ethical and moral dilemmas behind these acts. This brings up the issue of whose responsibility it is to protect wireless networks. While the manufacturer designs the product, the owner of the network chooses how to use the product and how to protect themselves as owners. In other words, it is ethical for manufacturers to accept partial responsibility for protecting their consumers. Using ethical decision-making approaches, the ethical problems surrounding Wi-Fi and why people commit unethical actions will be determined.