Today's parable is about the perils of using free WiFi hotspots. In particular, this is why you might want to be careful about using free WiFi. Lawyers and other guardians of sensitive client information should be especially wary of drinking from the free WiFi fountain.
What's the solution if you need to use the Internet when you're out and about? Get a MiFi card or similar mobile broadband card provided by most wireless providers (e.g. Sprint, Verizon, AT&T). Yes, this costs money (usually $60/month; with 2 year plan the card is usually free), but remember that saying about getting what you pay for. Some times when you pay nothing you get a whole lot of trouble.
P.S. If you want a better practice, start using the 80/20 Principle.
I know this is late but this is precisely why I use my netbook with the internet service with Verizon instead of the court’s “plug in” internet service.
One highly recommended precaution for Facebook and Twitter when accessing in public places: use the https:// alternative URLs for secure access. I recommend using bookmarks so that it is done automatically.