Cable Modems

Answer

Answered by Aaron Abadi

It's their job to charge you. Enjoy! AA In regards to the above, isn't it halachically stealing if one takes a service for which the cable company expects payment, but finds a way to end-around being billed, by obtaining a cable modem and cancelling service? Whether or not it is halachically permissible, it is very likely that it is illegal. As an attorney who has litigated against cable companies on behalf of clients for broadcast cable services (for TV), the law is pretty clear and very harsh vis a vis pirating of cable services. Although I haven't conducted legal research as to whether pirating of cable services includes cable usage for internet access, I would hesitate to advice anyone to go ahead and connect without paying the cable company the requisite fees. The penalties are severe if you are caught, including stiff fines and possible jail time.