Security firm Sophos reported that 54% of wireless users interviewed have admitted to using someone else's wireless Internet access.

In a report, done by the firm on behalf of The Times, many Wi-Fi users fail to properly secure their wireless connection with passwords and encryption, allowing passers-by and neighbors to steal their connection.

The report also notes that many ISPs put a clause on service that wireless customers must encrypt their connections, but the report also notes that it would be very difficult to enforce this mandate.

"If you're not encrypting your wireless communications then it's not hard for cybercriminals in your neighborhood to snoop on what you're doing, whether it's surfing or remotely accessing work documents. They may even be able to infect your computer with malware designed to commit identity theft," Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos, said in a statement.