There really isn't too much to add that hasn't been mentioned already.

1. Sniffing on networks is rather easily done. "Dropping in" on someone's network and using their bandwidth without some form of encryption is not entirely unlike breaking into someones house and using their telephone to make long distance calls. If the admin is so inclined -- they will track you down.

2. Just because bandwidth is there doesn't give you a right to "take" it. Intent matters a great deal here. If someone leaves a network open on purpose for the use/greater good of the general public, then by all means use it. However, just because someone doesn't know how to lock up their possession (bandwidth) doesn't give you the right to take it.

Just my 2 cents,
-eastwest

edited to add: robb is a guy.

[This message has been edited by eastwest (edited 02-18-2003).]