off topic: be aware – unsecured wifi networks

So this is a little off topic, but as most people who know me, know; I have some strong opinions on security in web systems. I’ve been seeing this for a while, but it seems to be getting more prolific and I haven’t found any articles about this online so I’m posting this in the hopes I can help some people.

I’ve been seeing an increase in unsecured wifi networks, named with fortune 1000 companies SSID’s. I know I’m in NY but there is no chance that where I am right now I can jump on Google, Groupon, or Hotels.com all of which are magically unsecured! I’ve not had the time to investigate this much (I need to not use my day-to-day laptop!) however, I’m 99% sure these are nefarious and you should not jump on them! They will likely try to sniff passwords. Be aware.