Internet Tracking (monitor, email, server, wi-fi)

[theguyfrompluto]

I read something that in public wifi, they can steal your login passwords and aee what you were viewing. Is that any true?

[macroy]

The emphasis here is "can".

Basically, any time you are using someone else's network to get to the Internet, all the information passing between your computer and your destination (be it the email server, the bank, shopping etc.) can pass through various controls and monitors.

On a wifi network, that information is floating around and can be captured by anyone in broadcast range.

As for encrypted data (SSL/TLS), there are solutions out there that can inspect SSL traffic as well... albeit this can't typically be done passively (client needs to be configured etc.).

That being said - just because it can be done doesn't mean every coffee shop owner is collecting customer's wifi data. You're probably at higher risk of being hit by a car getting to the coffee shop or having your wallet/purse stolen while in the coffee shop.

[metalhead0043]

It's certainly possible. No security method is 100% foolproof. However, as macroy said, just because it can be done doesn't mean that it's happening. In fact it's highly unlikely that it is. If you are worried about it then don't access sensitive information (bank accounts for example) over a public Wi-Fi network. Long story short, I wouldn't worry about it that much.

[jambo101]

I just assume anything i say on the cell phone or activity i delve into on the computer is or could be monitored so i'm careful not to broadcast sensitive info , its all part of todays techno world.