Legal Question in Technology Law in New Jersey

Re: free internet

This area of law isn't fully developed yet (at least for New Jersey) so as long as you have permission to use the internet, it should be alright. It can be argued that by leaving your wireless signal unsecured implies the owner is granting permission for others to access. However, there is liability on the owner if someone uses the internet to conduct illegal activities.

If by "picking up" you meant stealing or hacking into the wireless router for access, then that would be illegal trespass or theft of service. Wireless trespass is not defined specifically in New Jersey, but I am sure a person could be in trouble under the electronic surveillance or wiretap acts.