Without proper network protection, anyone with a laptop or cell phone can easily use another person's wireless Internet connection.

The action, called wardriving, is technically legal mostly everywhere -- but those who are paying for the service said it's simply not fair.

At present, the only states with set laws against people using unauthorized Internet access are Alaska, Florida, Illinois and Michigan. In those places, people can be arrested for hooking up to a Wi-Fi signal.

But there are other dangers with people piggybacking off of other users' Internet connections.

"Once they get access to your network, not only can they use the Internet that you're paying for, but they can also access files that are on your personal computers," said David Gazdik, a computer technician.

Those who have a router without an encryption or network security key are susceptible to cyber crooks, but Gadzik said Wi-Fi users can protect themselves by locking their connection.

"If someone does not know your network key, they cannot gain access to your network," he said.

Gadzik said to check for a brand name on a router, then call the company's technical support team and tell them to lock the network. Users are further advised to ask about obtaining a network key.

"There's so many people out there that just plug it in and think, because they've plugged it in, it's set up and ready to go and don't look at any of the security features that are available," he said.

Those operating on a hardwire network, meaning a cable is actually run from a computer to the wall, are safe from wardriving. Further, most people with DSL connections are safe, but some DSL users operate with routers and could be susceptible.

-Renee Cardelli & Ashley Koe, NEWS9