Windows 7: What's the danger of an 'open' wireless network connection ?

We are at a resort that has free wifi through an 'open' security setup...no wep...etc. The resort says not to worry..but...can anything you do while connected be accessed-stolen-copied-etc, while on-line.

More specifically...if you access your bank account...can your password...etc...be aquired by any outside source or computer hacker while using a open wireless setup outside your home...hotel...airport...etc ?

The Resort says banking etc sites use the https secured site so nothing can be hacked/stolen...but if you are on an open 3rd party wifi connections...is this true ??

Thanks...TiminAz

1) Anyone within range can use it.
2) If someone is clever enough they can hijack your passwords etc.
3) If you have the setting on they may be able to see your files.

HTTPS:
Https can still be cracked... Anything can. Using HTTPS is just more secure than normal protocol HTTP.

This is why you should always have a secure wireless.

for added security whilst you are away, if you must go to your bank online then maybe you could install rapport

Trusteer Rapport for Online Banking | Trusteer

simple and easy answer is yes. This is why i use an encrypted ssh connection to tunnel all my traffic while im on a open network.

Someone can run an man in the middle attack and see everything that you do. Even if you go to your secure (HTTPS) banking website the MITM can see your username and password used.