You're still stumbling through systems you are not explicitly invited into. I understand why you might feel that good intentions validate the act, but assuming that all administrators are so gracious would be dangerous :P
No, not "validate", that would be equally black-and-white thinking. But a decision of the legality and morality of the action should take into account the whole circumstances, not just the bare fact of the unauthorized access.
This seems similar in many respects to the Aaron Swartz case. My initial response rejects the idea that all actions regardless of motive should be taken as equally unlawful and unethical.
This seems similar in many respects to the Aaron Swartz case. My initial response rejects the idea that all actions regardless of motive should be taken as equally unlawful and unethical.