Google's plan for free Wi-Fi in SF under scrutiny

Following on Philip's coverage of Google's potential roll out of 'free' wi-fi nationally, the core SF model is now under scrutiny by a coalition of the ACLU, EFF, and EPIC. 

The 'free' wi-fi offered in San Fransisco is one part of a joint launch by Google and Earthlink.  The wi-fi zone will allow users access by either logging-in through Earthlink for $20/month or through Google for 'free', with the caveat that access via the Google sign-in will be at a slower connection speed and include Google ads.. 

Now the 'free' Google piece is what is under scrutiny by privacy advocates.  Though there is no dollar cost associated with using the Google log-in for the wi-fi network, the required 'log-in'/'sign-in' is of concern because with this access gate, Google can track your identidy/profile while monitoring any data passing through the connection. 

This is an effective system to data-mine aggregate usage patterns and trends but the privacy concern comes into play when they are capable and likely tracking and analyzing your every net click each and every time you log in with the same identifying information.

Personally, were I in SF, I would be all for the launch.  If I am doing any type of sensitive work online, I will be using a secure hard-wire connection from the home. 

If I'm out at the park or lounging on a weekend and want to check my e-mail, then I'd be happy for the 'free' connection.  I'd actually get a Smartphone or Wi-Fi PDA and cancel and the data-plan i have on my current cell phone. 

In the end, it isn't 'Free' but I wouldn't mind paying the 'look-over-my-shoulder' cost, to have something as a back-up. 

For Google investors, this shows Google's continued investment into pressing search further into users' lives and aligned with Google's SMS search feature, is another step in the quest for users to be able to:

 'Google' anything, anytime, anywhere.