Be cautious of cell phone jammers as criminals might incorporate them into their arsenal for illicit purposes. These portable devices, capable of initiating a "denial of service" or "DOS attack," are available for purchase on different online platforms for $1,000 to $2,000. However, the penalty for possessing one could exceed $10,000. Despite their compact size - with one model reportedly able to "fit into any empty cigarette pack" - these devices are highly potent. Once activated, they disrupt wireless signals within a range of approximately 100 feet.

Devices that illegally silence cell phones

The occurrence of cell phone jammers in Canada has attracted widespread attention, as reported by the Ottawa Sun. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has taken action by issuing a cautionary message to all law enforcement agencies nationwide regarding the use of cell phone jammers. This action was prompted after two Quebec police officers experienced interference with their walkie-talkies when they encountered two suspects on a dimly lit highway.

The effectiveness of these jammers in disrupting police radio communications was highlighted by the Mount Spokane incident. Consequently, multiple safety alerts have been issued in recent weeks to caution officers about the potential compromise to their safety posed by these devices.

Despite the provision outlined in Section 333 of the FCC Rules, which explicitly prohibits any individual from intentionally or maliciously disrupting or causing interference to radio communication, the regulatory body faces significant challenges in effectively enforcing this rule.

The owner of an upscale Maryland restaurant revealed that FCC and Verizon Wireless investigators paid a visit to the establishment last year. The unidentified owner disclosed that he invested $1,000 in a high-powered jammer to deter employees from prioritizing their phones over attending to customers.

He stated that he instructed them repeatedly, saying, "Place your mobile devices aside, place your mobile devices aside, place your mobile devices aside." However, they disregarded his instructions. The proprietor mentioned that Federal Communications Commission (FCC) investigators extensively surveyed the vicinity for a week, utilizing specialized equipment to identify signal jammers. Nevertheless, the proprietor had deactivated the equipment.

Verizon investigators faced a similar lack of success. The owner mentioned that the individual reached out to every resident in the town, providing them with his contact number and urging them to call him promptly if they encountered any issues. However, the owner has now discontinued the use of the jammer.