What are hobo symbols and what is their function?
Hobo symbols are a cryptic and very specific written language known by the people we classy as "hobos". These symbols usually specify different details of importance, things such as if a home owner has a dog that likes to bark, if the home owner is a gun owner, if there is a very kind hearted home owner willing to feed the less fortunate.
These were used as symbols for those of a like mind, and with that these symbols were the influence for warchalking. Somewhat of a bastard child between wardriving and hobo symbols, it mixes the two ideas and makes a new one, instead of mapping out what is an isn't available on your cell phone or a map on a computer, you mark up the world.
If you look at the very first image I posted you have 3 different types of symbols. Open node, closed node, and WEP node. Very simple design and structure, with an open node you write the SSID on the top, and the bandwidth on the bottom, as you can see in the above example for Retina. 100% open and available to the public. Keep in mind this though, just because the Access Point is open, does not exactly mean its open to the public, if you do access wifi without permission you are technically breaking the law. Odd ruling in my opinion.
The same structure applys to both WEP and closed node, for WEP you write the SSID, the bandwidth and who to contact for access. Closed node you write the SSID and that's it. As I said yesterday, DON'T USE WEP!!!
Warchalking is done by wondering tech geeks, when they come across a open WiFi they'll log in, use it, and make markings on the sidewalk, or on a wall. If you need access to your facebook in a pinch, you know where to go. I don't encourage use of things for any illegal intentions though, always ask for permission to avoid prosecution, still think its a dumb ruling though.
Until next time, be safe my goblins.
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