#137: Free Wi-Fi what's the catch

Google is playing Santa early this holiday season by offering free Wireless Access to major airports around the U.S.

"We're very happy to extend our Holiday Wi-Fi gift to the millions of people who will spend time in airports over the next few months," said Google vice president of search products Marissa Mayer. "We know that this is a very hectic travel season for people, and we hope that free Wi-Fi will make both traveling and connecting with friends and family a little bit easier."

 But what does Google gets in offering such generous gift?

Travelers who log into free wireless networks will be invited to reciprocate by making donations to one of three charities, with Google promising to match contributions to a maximum of 250,000 dollars.

Many travelers probably are armed with an iPhone, Blackberry or the Driod already connected to the Internet. But if you are tired of looking at the miniature screen, then using the free Wi-Fi access is a good option.

But not so fast. Keep in mind that open systems like these are vulnerable to hackers. So here's some good tips you might want to follow in case you get tempted.

Have a worry-free and safe traveling during the holiday season.