Google's Wi-Fi spying debacle didn't start out evil. By using its Street View vans to map out open Wi-Fi networks, Google could provide better location data to mobile users. If you use Google Maps from your phone, it could employ nearby wireless networks to determine where you are, no GPS required.

The problem: Besides the Wi-Fi network's name and location, . Over three years, Google gathered 600GB of extra data in more than 30 countries, resulting in , , and an FCC probe.

Even so, the impact on average consumers is minimal, says Peter Eckersley, senior staff technologist for the . You're in greater danger of being spied on by nosy neighbors or creeps parked outside your house.

The solution: Password-protect your wireless network (duh) and use encrypted HTTPS connections to browse the Web when possible (see item #3 below).