7 ms·

> no operative security barriers in place I don't know... Even if my front door was open, you still aren't allowed to enter my house without my permission.

• johngalt 15y ago
  But there is an element of permission inherent in DHCP. Your device is actively configuring my device specifically to allow network access. It's not an open door; it's a sign saying "This way please". That said, its obvious this was an attempt to circumvent access controls.
  • mbreese 15y ago
    I'm unfamiliar with MIT's guest setup, but I assume they let you get an IP address, but before you can access anything, you have to acknowledge their terms of service / acceptable use policy. If you fail to abide by this, you'd be accessing the network without permission. You're right that (as alleged), this would be an obvious attempt to circumvent access controls. Given the way things are worded, I'm guessing that the MIT computer that was improperly accessed was a router or switch. Hell, just plugging into the switch directly could be construed as unapproved access to a computer device. I think the Federal law treats anything with a processor a computer.
    • derekdahmer 15y ago
      The MIT Guest network is actually pretty awesome, it doesn't ask you to acknowledge anything, it just grants instant access.
  • pak 15y ago
    Yeah, I think it's a bad argument to personify network protocols or imbue them with intent. Legally speaking, what is more important is the intent of the person using them.
  • jholman 15y ago
    There's an element of permission inherent in a door! I mean, it's a breach in a wall, specifically put there at great additional expense, just to allow people entry! In either case, an enabling technology isn't inherently an invitation. Again, just because you CAN use a technology to do something, doesn't mean you MAY. And with respect to the comment about "this way please", and the "actively configuring my device", please note that the client initiates the DHCP conversation with a Discovery message. Discovery: "Can anyone give me DC info so I can set up my H, please?", Offer: "Yes, I can, here's one configuration option!" Request: "Yes please, that sounds good, I'll take it" Ack: "Okay, you got it". Note that the DHCP Discovery
• deleted 15y ago
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• fleitz 15y ago
  A stranger would probably be allowed to enter the property unless you had posted No Trespassing signs. They'd be required to leave upon request but I'm not sure that simply entering your house via an open door would constitute a crime or tort. An open door could likely be construed as implied consent.
  • jancona 15y ago
    Do you have any basis for claiming that "an open door could likely be construed as implied consent"? I would not advise that you try that in many parts of the US. You'll be risking getting shot, and the homeowner would not have committed a crime.