The threads on the Chicago board concerning their most recent busts...  state that the hotel internet connections are unsafe.  OK, I know they're not secured networks, but it's just illogical that LE would go to the trouble when they can work off CL or some other ad site...  I'm sure LE isn't telling just how they do the busts but CL & etc is as easy as picking up coffee & donuts...  

I just can't imagine LE & the hotel going to the trouble...  Does anybody have any proven  information?  
skb
 
PS Wireless 3G networks avoid hotel networks...

I would imagine LE would have to have a warrant to tap someone's internet  transmissions the same as they need a warrant to wire tap a telephone.

Read the whole article.

A warrant is only needed to search without consent...  it's the hotel's connection, not yours.
The hotel could employ their own IT staff to monitor it...  or even put blocks on it like a library!
Almost laughable when hotels are selling pay-for-view!

It still sounds far fetched, indirect route...  when a simple direct bust is easier.  They call the number in the ad, send an undercover & get him in the room...  BUSTED!
NO hotel would have any choice but to cooperate with LE.    

Yes, I find the d*mn tracking cookies pretty often & I delete them every chance I get.  
skb

that LE would have the technology to pinpoint your laptop, espcially if you are using the hotel's wireless internet access, to your use in your room.

So many other easier ways for them to nab low hanging fruit as has been previously described.

LE has the technology to pinpoint your laptop. It would be a bit difficult to get the exact location on wireless connection if you are moving but it can be done.
The hotel network can be monitored by the hotel IT staff. I suggest if you are concerned about monitoring to use a tool like Onion Router on a portable thumb drive. A portable internet browser can also be installed on your thumb drive. This will allow you to surf in relative anonymity.

... and the CIA is shooting microwaves through my house to make me confess to shooting JFK.  
For God's sake... what technology makes POSSIBLE doesn't mean its PRACTICAL to do so.  
How much time, effort, technology do you really think some police department can/will devote to making misdemeanor soliciting arrests?  
My advice is for all of us to surf Craig's List, TER, and all the other sites heavily when we travel even if we are not going to call a lady.  If anyone IS snooping, have a nice day, all they have done is waste time.  There is NO law against reading escort's ads online.
MVR