That is, unless, you have a static IP, like I do.
In that case, it’s likely that these people had a wide open wireless Internet connection, used simple WEP encryption on their wireless router, or simply didn’t change the defaults, like so many retail-level, non-technical people fail to do.
Using programs such as KeePass (search KeePass on SourceForge.net) to generate complex random passwords or entering some numbers and symbols into your standard passwords makes cracking your wireless network that much harder.
If you don’t know how to secure your wireless network, either abstain from having one or hire someone to do it for you.
While my connection is secure, I have a lot of trouble with blaming those that don’t. If the police receive a threat through the mail with a return address on the envelope, are they then allowed to storm the house bearing that address???
Welcome to the New America, where we are all presumed guilty until proved innocent!
Yep. Wander into any subdivision.....and how many 192.168.0.100’s or 192.168.1.104’s you think you’d find?
Dozens.
There are many instances of hired techs installing back door spyware.
Make sure the person helping is certified and undergoes regular background checks. Also, even if you turn off your wireless feature and use wired connections, the router / firewall still needs to be secured properly. A web crawler could still seek to penetrate the firewall (like Stuxnet).