Net world
Countless places now offer free Internet access. A vacation can be in a hotel, in the city or in companies. To connect briefly, you can use social media channels or surf the web. However, these public WLANs pose risks to users and those who make them available.
Vorarlberg companies receive frequent visits from the State Criminal Police Office. The crimes were committed on their open — meaning freely accessible — Wi-Fi. Child abuse ranges from downloaded images to threats on social media.
This is not unusual and unpleasant for all involved, says Harald Longi, the police officer in charge of cybercrime: “In most cases, suspicion naturally falls on company employees. Of course this will lead to house raids and equipment confiscation.
WLAN operators will not be penalized
Criminals are often looking for free Wi-Fi. Longi says it is very difficult for the police to interrogate them there. However, the WLAN operators do not commit a criminal offence: “The person providing the WLAN can never be held responsible, for example the Austrian post office, for any threats delivered by parcel or post.”
Think about what you can do with free Wi-Fi
You are never completely protected on the Internet. Harald Longhi recommends that private individuals do not do everything as usual on an open WLAN. Regardless of whether it’s in a shopping center or a hotel: “It can be used for general things – just watch the news for a moment. If you actually go online, it’s best not to place any orders, not check any emails, and not do anything related to money.” It’s best to wait until you’re on private Wi-Fi or using payments. Your cell phone contract.
