The FCC says illegal devices that block cell phone signals could pose security risk.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has become aware of a growing trend of individuals selling “jammers” that have the capability to jam cell phone calls, text messages, Wi-Fi networks, and GPS systems. These illegal devices can significantly disrupt public spaces and create chaos among public safety officials.

The FCC has issued warnings to the public about the dangers of using jammers, as they pose a threat to emergency communications and may even interfere with air traffic control. It is illegal to use or sell jammers in the United States, and violators can be subject to fines and even imprisonment.

Despite the risks associated with jammers, some individuals continue to market them as privacy protection tools. However, the reality is that these devices can have unintended consequences and prevent legitimate emergency communication, leading to potential harm to public safety.

As the FCC continues to monitor the issue and pursue enforcement actions against those who use or sell jammers, it is important for the public to be aware of the risks associated with these illegal devices. It is vital that we prioritize public safety and work to prevent the use of technologies that pose a threat to our communities.

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..

Selling, advertising, using, or importing jammers are illegal acts, according to the Communications Act of 1934, which bans blocking radio communications in public.

Earlier this week, the FCC issued citations to eight people and companies advertising jammers on Craigslist.

The FCC said jammers were advertised on the site in Orlando, Philadelphia, Austin, Mississippi, Charlotte, N.C., Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, and Corpus Christi, Texas. Officials say they don’t believe the cases are connected.

“Merely posting a signal jammer ad on sites like Craigslist.org violates federal law. Signal jammers are contraband for a reason,” Michele Ellison, the FCC’s enforcement bureau chief, said in a statement. “One person’s moment of peace or privacy could very well endanger the safety and wellbeing of others.”

According to the citations, most sellers advertised jammers as a way of to have an “undisturbed nap” on a bus, force a quiet classroom, or keep your area “annoyance free,” without alluding to the potential for more nefarious uses of the device.

“We are increasingly concerned that individual consumers who operate jamming devices do not appear to understand the potentially grave consequences of using a jammer,” one of the citations reads. “Instead, these operators incorrectly assume that their illegal operation is justified by personal convenience or should otherwise be excused.”

But at least one seller seemed to know jammers were contraband, the FCC says.

Keith Grabowski was found to have advertised a cell phone jammer and wifi jammer on Craigslist for $300. The ad contained very little detail, hinting at the illegal nature of the device. The citation suggests that Grabowski was aware of the sensitive nature of the product he was advertising. People found advertising or using jammers can be fined over $100,000, and the FCC has set up a Jammer Tip Line for people to report violations. Those issued citations have 15 days to remove the ad and provide information about where they purchased the jammers and who they sold them to. The FCC promises to take increasingly aggressive enforcement action against violators. The consequences of selling or operating a jammer can be high.