Originally Posted by NOLA Flyer
The only thing I worry about "free" WiFi at airports are people who would setup bogus routers to hijack your connection in an attempt to steal your passwords, etc. Nonsecure WiFi networks, even if they're free-are worrisome to the savvy surfer.
You realize that, unless you're using SSL or SSH or some other end-to-end encryption protocol from your laptop to whomever you are sending your password, it doesn't matter whether the "hacker" owns the access-point or not -- they can sniff your unsecure passwords. Inversely, if the hacker DOES own the access point, and you are using proper security, they can't sniff your passwords.
Also, to avoid phishing scams when using public networks (including those you pay for, such as T-Mobile) always check the validity of the SSL certificates before you enter your passwords.
Finally, make sure your email traffic isn't going over straight POP and SMTP (ask your IT department) and never assume anything you say on instant messenger isn't being read by someone else. The majority of the stuff we do online is not encrypted and, therefore, can be observed by anyone able to connect to the access point -- owner, or not.
Brian