What is Illegal Equipment? Guide

In Australia, it is unlawful to possess or use mobile phone jammers, GPS jammers, wi-fi jammers, drone jammers, and mobile phone boosters. Violators of these regulations will face penalties. Be aware that these illegal devices include various signal blocking and enhancing equipment.
- Do Mobile Phone Jammers Work?
- GPs’ Smart Messaging Secrets?
- Can Mobile Phone Boosters Enhance Signals?
- Can Wi-Fi and Drone Jammers Coexist?
- Penalties: To Be or Not?
- How to report illegal equipment effectively?
- Penalties: To Punish or Not?
- Penalty Queries?
Do Mobile Phone Jammers Work?
Mobile phone jammers, also known as PMTS jamming equipment, are strictly prohibited. These devices can cause significant interference to mobile phone signals, potentially blocking access to emergency services and disrupting other radio services. Such interferences not only hinder communication but could also aid criminal and terrorist activities. For detailed regulations on mobile phone jammers, refer to the Jamming Equipment Permanent Ban. Ensure compliance to avoid violating the law and causing harm to public safety.
GPs’ Smart Messaging Secrets?
GPS jammers, also known as RNSS jamming equipment, are strictly prohibited. These devices cause harmful interference to satellite navigation systems, disrupting crucial GPS signals. Operating, supplying, or even offering to supply gps jammers is a violation, posing significant risks to emergency services like police, ambulance, and fire departments, whose navigation systems could be compromised. Additionally, they can threaten other radio communication services. To understand the full scope of restrictions, refer to the Jamming Equipment Permanent Ban, which outlines the rules and regulations regarding GPS jammers.
Can Mobile Phone Boosters Enhance Signals?
On March 13th, 2025, significant amendments were implemented through the Communications (Interpretation) (Consequential Amendments) Instrument 2025, specifically targeting the regulations surrounding mobile phone boosters. These devices, which are designed to enhance phone signals, have been the subject of strict prohibitions due to their potential to disrupt mobile networks and compromise the signal quality for other users. In line with these amendments, the Prohibition of Mobile Phone Boosters Declaration has undergone key updates, primarily in the replacement of references to the older Radiocommunications (Interpretation) Determination 2015 with the newer 2025 version. This shift reflects the evolving regulatory framework that aims to address the technological advancements and associated challenges in the radiocommunications sector. Importantly, the recent changes to the declaration do not alter its core operational principles, ensuring continuity and clarity in the enforcement of rules against the use, supply, or ownership of mobile phone boosters.
Can Wi-Fi and Drone Jammers Coexist?
Operating, supplying, or offering wi-fi and drone jammers is strictly prohibited. These devices, known as RLAN and RPAS jamming equipment, cause disruptive interference to wireless networks and drone communication systems. Their use can lead to unpredictable drone behavior, service disruptions for businesses and consumers, and potential threats to property and public safety. For detailed regulations, refer to the Jamming Equipment Permanent Ban.
Penalties: To Be or Not?
Breaching the rules can lead to serious penalties, including a maximum fine of $330,000 and/or imprisonment for 2 years. Offenders should be aware of the consequences for each violation.
How to report illegal equipment effectively?
Using or possessing illegal equipment can have life-threatening consequences. If you’re aware of anyone having or using such equipment, or see someone selling it online, please report it to us immediately. You can contact the ACMA’s customer service center by calling 1300 850 115, emailing us at info@acma.gov.au, or writing to us at Australian Communications and Media Authority, Attn: Monitoring and Compliance Section, PO Box 13112, Law Courts, Melbourne VIC 8010. When reporting, please provide details of any interference you’re experiencing, the location of the illegal equipment, the URL of the listing if seen online, any information about the person who has the equipment, and your contact details. It’s crucial to report these activities to help us ensure public safety and compliance with regulations.