Is it possible that my using a wireless network that someone else set up could cause them problems?

Let me get this straight...you're using someone else's wireless?

I don't think that's a very good idea. Basically you're hijacking someone else's web service and bandwidth. That's like tapping your neighbor's outdoor electric outlet. Not very legal or ethical and brings up privacy issues to boot.

There are folks who drive around rich neighborhoods with their laptops trying to tap into local wireless networks set up by homeowners and then see if they can access personal information, credit card numbers etcetera--or just avoid paying for web service.

People pay good money for their bandwidth, whether they be individuals or businesses. Taking that bandwidth, just because you can, is no better than tapping someone's electric lines.

I'm really surprised/disappointed no one else mentioned the ethics issue.

SDAI-Tech1