You must be among the people that think those who break copyrights are "stealing" too, right? Please check the definition of stealing. They're infringing on rights, but there is no good being actually STOLEN from anyone. Same with AT&T; you're breaking your contract, but it's up to AT&T to enforce their end of the contract. They can take action against you, but its not THEFT. Civil vs. criminal.
And yes, I know about the DMCA, etc laws regarding copyright infringement being a crime, but this is brand new thinking and I still assert that although it is a crime, it is not the crime of theft.
Technically, it's theft of services. You are using a level of service you are not paying for. Don't believe me, google
cable modem uncapping. Same arguments 10 years ago, same result.
Now do I think AT&T is going to have the FBI bust down the doors of unauthorized tethering users? no. I think they will either do what they are doing now, or start terminating service.
Do I think that this type of thing SHOULD fall into the realm of "criminal"? Hell no. Do
I think it's stealing? Nope. Unfortunately neither your opinion, mine, or anyone else's on this board matters. I'm sure if AT&T got a bug up there butts about it, they could get it treated as such.
The thing to remember is this: If a big corp thinks it's illegal (or just wants it to be), they tell the law, the law is probably going to side with the big corp a find
something to charge you with. Then it's up to a judge. Even if you eventually win, you'll be stuck with legal bills and who knows how many hours wasted on the battle. Is it right? No. Is it reality? Yep....