FCC Cracks Down on Cell Phone 'Jammers'

An uptick in individuals selling "jammers" - devices designed to interfere with cell phone calls, text messages, Wi-Fi networks, and GPS systems - has been noted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), raising concerns about potential disruptions in public areas.

The small, battery-powered devices can be used to create "dead zones" within a small area, usually 30 feet or so, and have been used by movie theaters, restaurants, and schools to keep people off their cell phones. But they also cut off 911 calls, can disrupt navigation near airports, and have been used near police stations to interrupt radio communications. Officials at the FCC say they've noticed an increasing number of jammers, which are banned by federal law, coming into the country. Many cheaper versions, which sell for as little as $25, are imported from Asia, according to the agency..

It is against the law to sell, promote, operate, or bring wifi jammers into the country as per the Communications Act of 1934, which prohibits the interference of radio communications in public areas.

Eight individuals and companies advertising jammers on Craigslist were recently cited by the FCC.

According to the FCC, jammers were marketed on the platform in Orlando, Philadelphia, Austin, Mississippi, Charlotte, N.C., Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, and Corpus Christi, Texas. Officials have stated that they do not perceive any connection between the cases.

According to Michele Ellison, the FCC's enforcement bureau chief, the act of posting an ad for a signal jamming device on platforms like Craigslist.org is in direct violation of federal law. Signal jammers are prohibited for a significant purpose.

As per the citations, many sellers marketed jammers as a tool for achieving an uninterrupted nap while traveling on a bus, creating a noise-free classroom, or preserving a tranquil environment, all without hinting at the device's potential for more sinister activities.

The concern is mounting as it is observed that individual consumers who employ jamming devices seem to be oblivious to the severe implications of their actions, as stated in one of the citations. These operators mistakenly believe that their illegal use of jammers is justified based on personal convenience or should be exempted.

The FCC has stated that at least one seller was knowledgeable about the fact that jammers were illegal contraband.

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