Google and Microsoft speak out against blocking Wi-Fi spots by hotels

Google and Microsoft have spoken out against blocking personal Wi-Fi hotspots by hotels. US hotel chains want the option to block such hotspots, because they would be insecure and frustrate their own Wi-Fi network.

Both Google and Microsoft have disclosed their position to the FCC. Google says it’s important that administrators can manage their own networks, but that blocking networks shouldn’t be included, “especially since the intended purpose is to direct traffic to their own networks, often for a fee.”

The American Hotel & Lodging Association and hotel chain Marriott asked the FCC to take a stance on blocking guest Wi-Fi. The organizations say they do not want to do this via illegal jammers, but they do want to use other means for blocking. The personal hotspots would pose a security risk, the hotels argue, because malicious parties can lure guests to their free hotspots and intercept traffic via these honey pots. In addition, interference would cause the hotels own Wi-Fi service to slow down “which could damage the reputation of hotels.” Cisco supports the hotels position, PCWorld writes.

Marriot was fined in October 479,000 euros for blocking customers’ Wi-Fi hotspots. The chain is also required to report to the FCC every three months for three years on the use of Wi-Fi functionality in all its hotels.