An oilfield company faces a May deadline to contest a $126,000 fine assessed by the Federal Communications Commission against the company for jamming signal cellphone calls.

that on April 9, the FCC adopted a notice of apparent liability against Taylor Oilfield Manufacturing Inc. of Broussard, accusing Taylor of using four cellular phone jammers to curtail cellphone use by employees.

Company officials told the FCC the cell jammers, which disrupted cellphone usage, were used to prevent employees from using cellphones at work.

Taylor was given 30 days from April 9 to pay the penalty or respond to the FCC in writing as to why the fine should be canceled or reduced.

Taylor officials did not respond to phone calls seeking comment.

The case began after the FCC received a tip and sent an agent to the company site in Broussard in May 2012. The FCC notice said company officials confirmed use of four cell jammers and possession of a fifth cell jammer, which was not then in use.

Use of cell jammers is prohibited in the United States, and the FCC prohibits companies from importing cell jammers from outside the country. The Broussard company said it bought its cell jammers from overseas, the FCC said.

“These unlawful jammer operations posed a tangible public safety hazard by potentially blocking authorized communications” such as 911 emergency calls and other law enforcement communications, the FCC said in its notice to the company. Cell jammers can also adversely affect global positioning system signals.

Taylor representatives told the FCC it tried to block employee cellphone use after a near accident the company said was partly connected to an employee using a cellphone, according to FCC documents.

Jammers don't target individual phones - they actually block all phones in the affected area. They drown out communications between cell phones and base stations by generating RF noise - the equivalent of you trying to talk to someone while I'm standing next to you screaming at the top of my voice.

I doubt anyone is using jammers - jammers are uncommon, and the penalties for using jammers are quite severe in many places. Start by talking to your mobile carrier. If after all of this you still have reason to believe that jammers are being used, complain to the body responsible for radio and communication systems in your country - this could be the FCC in the US, or Ofcom in the UK - other countries will have their own equivalent.

Someone used a signal jammer on me. How do I find it and stop it?

I thought it was the same at my house where the signal was always down to 3g and I couldn't use the service unless I was outside. It turned out to be an IMSI trap installed in the apartment next door. I started getting phishing pages from my bank and realized that my email had been compromised, the virus software on my computer had been disabled, and everything I did had been copied because it acted as MITM.

How to prevent jammers?

This happened to me at the school where I worked. Now, a private company has rented the school building to conduct the exams. As previously agreed, in order to prevent rampant unfair practices in public exams, the company installed jammers in all 108 classrooms of our school. This was done a few days before the exam. Children are curious and mischievous by nature. One morning, we found that none of our smartphones on or off campus had received a signal. Several departments at a university next door were also affected. It's almost impossible for us to find the malicious jammer we suspect is at work. Fortunately, however, the school LAN as well as Internet connections and landlines are working. As head of technology, I had to come up with a solution, and today I'm going to share that solution.

Compared to GSM 4G cellular networks, Wifi uses a higher frequency (2.4 Ghz). The trick for all users with a phone that supports WiFi calling or VoIP is to route calls through the WiFi network. For other users with smartphones, the solution is to use Whatsapp to talk to FBM (Skype works too, only no one uses it except me).

This went on for a few days, and after the test was over, the renters left with their jammers.

Have you ever secretly used a cell phone blocker in a restaurant, theater, or on public transportation to end an unusually loud, obnoxious, and unnecessary phone conversation with a stranger sitting next to you?

I once rode the quiet Amtrak car between Boston and New York.

A woman was on the phone, completely oblivious to the signs posted and the announcements made over the public address system.

She replied, "The train hasn't moved yet," and continued the conversation.

From now on, all I have to do is ask the conductor for help, even if he's sitting next to me. I've gotten too many smart-aleck - or worse - replies.

Once, at a movie, I asked a young woman next to me to turn off her lit cell phone, and she reported me for harassment.

God, I'm easily twice her age, but that obviously doesn't count.

How to use cell phone jammer? Where can I buy one?

To use this phone number, first make sure you have the lawyer's phone number on hand - it is illegal to use a lawyer's phone number in most countries.

It's easy to find them online - try Google, but you'll have to check if they're allowed to be imported into your country. It's easy to find unsophisticated devices that broadcast across the entire spectrum (kind of like sparks, but more sophisticated), but this would obviously annoy more people and authorities even more, not least because it would block 911 calls and potentially also communications for emergency services, WiFi, Bluetooth, etc.

If you want a device that allows 911 calls but blocks other calls, it's very complicated and expensive. In addition, as more and more frequencies (from about 800Mhz to more than 3GHz) are used in cellular networks, these devices must cover a range of radio spectrum.

Prior to midday on September 11, 2018, Jared Johns, a former Army private, positioned himself on his bed, activated the camera on his iPhone, and bid farewell to his loved ones.

As the two-minute video neared its conclusion, Johns's eyes grew wide upon reading a message on his screen: "She is heading to the authorities, and you will be incarcerated," the message stated.

Johns, a veteran of the Afghanistan conflict, inhaled deeply before positioning a 9 mm handgun beneath his chin and squeezing the trigger.

A large number of ex and current military personnel, including a 24-year-old veteran, have fallen victim to a malicious scheme known as "sextortion." This tragic plot, which resulted in the young veteran's suicide, involved deceitful individuals pretending to be underage girls on dating platforms. These scam artists then tried to extort money from men who fell into their trap, according to prosecutors.

However, the most surprising element of the storyline in Johns' situation was that it was reportedly executed by prisoners at Lee Correctional Institution, a high-security prison located in South Carolina approximately 150 miles east of Greenville. Moreover, the inmates managed to accomplish this using smartphones - prohibited gadgets that were supposed to be prevented by the prison's $1.7 million "managed access system."

Prison authorities, along with certain federal organizations, are considering acquiring a more advanced and possibly pricier technology to prevent illegal cellular and Wi-Fi communication from contraband phones in correctional facilities: a signal blocker device capable of blocking all calls within its designated area.

Bryan P. Stirling, the director of the South Carolina Department of Corrections, has emphasized that inmates may be physically incarcerated, but they still have digital freedom.

However, certain individuals with expertise caution against the use of jamming technology, as demonstrated by the recent testing conducted by the federal Bureau of Prisons in a South Carolina correctional facility. They argue that such technology may jeopardize public safety by disrupting emergency 911 calls and other cellphone services in close proximity. In the case of rural prisons, the worry extends to drivers on local roads and highways. Furthermore, these experts assert that the effectiveness of this technology is highly doubtful.

Jamming all calls, even to 911

The utilization of cellphone jammers, a technology that has long been opposed by the communications industry, has been proposed by corrections officials and federal agencies to address the issues at hand. These problems highlight the need for such measures, as they aim to prevent all calls, including those made from phones owned by staff or emergency workers.

Managed access systems enable individuals to place calls only if their numbers are pre-approved, whereas jammers have the capability to disrupt all frequencies, including data and Wi-Fi, without discrimination. This poses a significant challenge for the country's 911 phone system, as it operates on a frequency similar to that of commercial carriers.

Solely federal agencies have the legal authority to utilize jammers, under specific conditions related to national security. However, with the approval of FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, who was appointed by President Trump in 2017, and the U.S. Department of Justice, the use of jammers in prisons may be permitted.

During the month of September, announcements were made by the department and state officials regarding a test conducted at South Carolina's Broad River Correctional Institution. The test revealed that a micro-jammer had the capability to block calls within a cell block, while still permitting "legitimate calls" just one foot outside the walls.

However, the technical report conducted by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration presented a different perspective. It highlighted that the test solely focused on one out of the 14 jammers necessary to obstruct calls in half of the cellblock. Additionally, the report indicated that jamming was detected at a minimum distance of 65 feet, although the extent of its impact on regular cell-phone service remained uncertain.

Expanding the scope of cell phone jammer applications

Cell phone jammers were initially created for law enforcement to intercept messages from terrorists and criminals. Over time, they have undergone significant advancements. Nowadays, they play a crucial role not only in combating terrorism but also in various official and civilian applications. Their capability to block communications as a precautionary step against organized crime and to disable remote-controlled explosive devices makes them essential in contemporary security measures. Furthermore, there have been instances where signal jammers have prevented attempts to assassinate prominent figures, underscoring their vital function in high-risk security situations.

Technological advances enhance jamming capabilities

The efficiency of cell phone jammers is attributed to the sophisticated technology powering them. These gadgets emit precise signals that disrupt the functioning of the remote-controlled receiver, thus thwarting the implementation of any programmed instructions. It is crucial to note that this interference is limited to a specified zone, guaranteeing that devices beyond this shielded region remain unaffected. This accuracy is vital for upholding uninterrupted communication across a broader expanse while safeguarding the intended area.

Jammers employ uniquely coded signals to trick GSM device receivers, stopping mobile phones from linking up with their respective base stations. This advanced method guarantees that any effort to communicate through a cell phone within the jammed area is successfully disrupted, while authorized communications beyond the jammed area continue without interruption.

Applications Beyond Terrorism

Educational Institutions:
- Cell phone jammers are increasingly used in educational institutions to prevent cheating in exams. By blocking signals within exam rooms, authorities can ensure a fair exam environment.

Prisons and Detention Centers:
- In detention centers, jammers are essential to prevent inmates from making unauthorized calls, which could coordinate criminal activity outside the facility.

Corporate Security:
- Companies use jammers to protect sensitive information during high-level meetings, ensuring that no unauthorized recording or transmission occurs.

Public Events and Venues:
- During large public events such as concerts or sporting events, jammers can prevent disruptions and ensure the safety of attendees by blocking potential threats such as remote control devices.

Hospitals:
- In medical settings, jammers help maintain security in areas where cell phone signals could interfere with sensitive medical equipment.

It is evident that cell phone jammers offer numerous advantages; however, their utilization necessitates a careful balance between ethical and legal factors. The deployment of jammers is subject to regulations that differ across countries and regions. In numerous locations, their usage is restricted to authorized individuals and specific situations to prevent any potential abuse and guarantee uninterrupted access to emergency communications.

With the continuous advancement of technology, it is expected that cell phone jammers will undergo further improvements. These future enhancements may involve refining the targeting capabilities to minimize any unintended disruptions, enhancing the portability for quick deployment in dynamic scenarios, and strengthening the encryption to ensure that jamming signals remain impenetrable.

Cell phone jammers have transformed from a niche law enforcement tool to a versatile device with widespread use in security, privacy, and public safety. By leveraging advanced technology, these devices play a vital role in protecting against threats ranging from terrorism to cheating on exams. However, their use must be strictly regulated to balance security needs with individual rights and freedoms. As we move forward, the continued development of jamming technology promises to enhance our ability to protect and secure society from emerging challenges.

A Chicago resident, aged 63, was formally charged on Tuesday for employing an illicit device to find solace during his commute on the CTA.

The man has been accused of interfering with cell phone signals before, as reported by Audrina Bigos of CBS 2, and the high number of complaints about dropped calls has raised concerns.

After being charged with a felony for using a signal jamming device, Dennis Nicholl, a certified public accountant, left the jail dressed in a ball cap and business casual attire.

The device caught Keegan Goudie's attention, leading him and his brother to write a post on thesixthirty.com after encountering it on the CTA Red Line.

Chas remarked that his behavior suggested he was engaging in suspicious activities, and that the device seemed inappropriate for him to possess.

Online retailers offer cell phone blocker for sale at prices that vary between $30 and $300. Federal regulations strictly forbid the sale, purchase, or operation of these devices. These jammers have the ability to block cell phone signals, police radio transmissions, and emergency calls.

Keegan expressed the belief that it serves as evidence of what any person can achieve in relation to security and the menace of terrorism in a metropolitan setting.

Over the course of several months, the Chicago Police diligently probed into complaints regarding dropped calls along the Red Line. Subsequently, a 911 caller brought attention to the now infamous Nicholl. He was apprehended by undercover officers on a CTA platform on Tuesday and is now confronting a felony charge.

According to attorney Charles Lauer, there was no malicious intent to cause harm to anyone.

In an attempt to seek tranquility, Nicholl's lawyer argues that he resorted to employing signal blocker due to his frustration with the incessant presence of people using their cell phones.

As per the FCC, those who employ cell phone jammers risk imprisonment and hefty fines. The fines can amount to $16,000 for each violation or reach as high as $112,000 for a single use of the device.

Wednesday night saw Nicholl being released from jail after securing bond.

What’s the context?

US prison officials harness new technology to crack down on contraband cellphones but some still want powers to jam signals

South Carolina programme shuts off more than 800 phones

Federal action on broader signal jamming tech seen as unlikely

Activists raise privacy, rights concerns for prisoners

RICHMOND, Virginia - As director of South Carolina's Department of Corrections, Bryan Stirling believes he knows what is needed to make the state's 21 penal institutions safer while also protecting people outside the prison walls.

Ideally, Stirling would like to have the power to jam phone signals from the state's prisons to tackle the scourge of illegal cellphones being used to facilitate crimes ranging from sex trafficking to murder-for-hire and drug dealing.

But this action has been prohibited under federal law for decades, and there is no immediate sign of change despite numerous appeals from law enforcement officers across the country, including a letter from top state prosecutors to the leaders of Congress last year.

With no movement likely in the near future, South Carolina opted for a pilot programme that allowed authorities in Lee Correctional Institution to identify and shut down contraband cellphones. More than 800 phones have been shut off at Lee since last July, out of an inmate population of about 1,100.

"We call it a pilot, but it's basically the system in there now," said Stirling. "We are using this technology in Lee and we will continue to use this technology until we can secure the money to do it everywhere."

Cellphone jammers not enough to block calls from prisoners

This is the view of senior prison officials who tell the Sunday Express that even though signal blocker (which they say are operational) are used to block signals from cellphones within the prisons, other interception technologies are needed for the system to be effective.

“Cellphone jammers are being used. But they need to be in use with other technologies like Wi-Fi jammers to be truly effective. We can see this in other jurisdictions. But it’s yet to be properly utilised here.

“So you will have prisoners with cellphones and tablets who cannot make calls. But they can use either the phone’s data, or if they have access to a hot-spot device or a Wi-Fi box, they will be able to make calls via social media apps. These include things like WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram. So there is still the issue of communication with the outside world. Communication is still being made.

“In other jurisdictions, you will see the cellphone jammers being used with other interception devices to determine the frequencies used by these devices, and then target those specific frequencies. If this is not done, then it’s almost like spinning top in mud,” a senior source in the Prison Service explained yesterday.

Resembling a walkie-talkie in appearance, the phone blocker is deceptively powerful. Once activated, this small device can effectively block all cell phone signals in the surrounding area. Engaging in the use of such a device is not only illegal on a federal level, but can also result in a hefty fine of $16,000 and potential incarceration.

Despite the circumstances, Eric, a Philadelphia resident, remained undeterred. He became increasingly frustrated with the constant babble of cell phone conversations on SEPTA 44 buses. To shield himself from these discussions, Eric resorted to utilizing a jamming device.

Eric pointed out that a significant number of people exhibit a lack of respect for personal space and tend to be excessively loud. To address this issue, he adjusts the antenna and activates the device.

The jammers utilized in this case are considered illegal as they possess the capability to obstruct emergency cell phone communications, along with impeding the transmission of vital signals such as police radios and other two-way radios.

Eric mentioned that after finding out it was against the law, he is planning to remove the jammer he acquired, an item valued at $300 according to ABC News.

Buying a jammer is easy, but where can you use it?

The intentional interference with electromagnetic frequencies, known as jamming, has been integrated into numerous devices and is increasingly being offered to individuals and organizations. Despite being illegal in most parts of the world, jammers are becoming smaller, more portable, easier to operate, and more affordable. While some jammers disrupt communications indiscriminately, there are specialized devices designed to block specific signals. The most popular of these include mobile phone jammers, wifi jammers, drone blocker, and gps jammers.

The use of these devices is frowned upon by most national authorities because they often have a more significant impact than initially thought. Despite well-meaning intentions, such as blocking mobile phone usage in schools, theaters, and hospitals, or preventing drones from flying over private property, the interference can extend well beyond the intended boundaries. Unintended outcomes like dropped 911 calls, drones plummeting from the sky, and compromised air traffic control have led countries like South Africa and Israel to outlaw jammers entirely.

Is there somewhere I can use a jammer?

Jammers are commonly utilized in the vicinity of prisons and detention centers to obstruct unauthorized and unmonitored communications between prisoners and detainees and the outside world. Certain countries, like Brazil, India, New Zealand, and Sweden, have either granted exemptions or are contemplating exemptions for the utilization of mobile phones and wifijammer around prisons, while in the UK, this practice has been legal since 2012.

Certain countries have permitted or recommended the expansion of jammer usage. In India, for instance, jammers are permissible in schools, mosques, and theaters provided that the signal disruption is contained within the boundaries of the respective establishments. Although jammers were previously sanctioned for deployment in settings such as theaters and concert halls, this authorization was revoked in 2012.

In the event that you legally acquire a cell phone jammer, what steps should you take? A potential solution could be to plan your next trip to Ukraine, as this country has implemented measures to prevent students from using mobile phones to cheat in exams. Consequently, Ukraine stands out as one of the few nations where the use of jammers is sanctioned.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has expressed concern over the use of unauthorized devices that disrupt cell phone signals, emphasizing the potential security risks associated with such actions.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has observed a rise in the sale of "signal jammer" - gadgets capable of disrupting cell phone calls, text messages, Wi-Fi networks, and GPS systems - which could pose a threat to public safety.

Battery-powered devices of small size can be utilized to establish "dead zones" within limited areas, typically spanning around 30 feet. These devices have found application in movie theaters, restaurants, and schools to discourage individuals from using their cell phones. However, they possess the drawback of obstructing emergency 911 calls, disrupting navigation systems in proximity to airports, and have even been employed near police stations to interfere with radio communications. Officials at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have observed a growing influx of cell phone jammer, which are prohibited under federal law, being brought into the country. The agency reports that numerous inexpensive variations, priced as low as $25, are imported from Asia.

It is against the law to sell, promote, utilize, or bring in jammers as per the Communications Act of 1934, which prohibits the obstruction of radio communications in public spaces.

The Federal Communications Commission stated that jammers were promoted on the website in Orlando, Philadelphia, Austin, Mississippi, Charlotte, N.C., Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, and Corpus Christi, Texas. Authorities have indicated that they do not think the incidents are related.

Michele Ellison, the FCC's enforcement bureau chief, stated that simply placing an advertisement for a signal jammer on websites such as Craigslist.org is a violation of federal law. Signal jammers are considered contraband for a specific reason.

Based on the references, the majority of vendors promoted jammers as a means to enjoy an uninterrupted rest on public transportation, maintain a peaceful learning environment, or ensure a hassle-free space, without mentioning the device's potential for illicit activities.

One of the citations expresses growing apprehension regarding the lack of awareness among individual consumers who use jamming devices about the serious repercussions associated with their usage. These operators mistakenly believe that their unlawful actions are justified due to personal convenience or should be pardoned in some way.

According to the FCC, it has been reported that at least one seller demonstrated awareness of the fact that jammers are considered contraband.

Keith Grabowski purportedly listed a "cell phone jammer, wifi jammer" on the Philadelphia Craigslist for a price of $300. In the advertisement, he mentions that due to the nature of the item, limited information is provided. He emphasizes that the jammer is not a toy and expresses his urgency to sell it quickly.

According to his citation, it is evident from the content of Mr. Grabowski's advertisement that he had knowledge of the sensitive and potentially illegal nature of the device he was selling on Craigslist.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established a dedicated hotline, known as the "Jammer Tip Line," to enable individuals to report any suspected instances of jammer sales or usage to the bureau.

Ellison stated that our intention is to escalate our enforcement measures against those who violate the rules. If individuals are caught selling or using a jammer, they will face significant financial consequences.

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.

Minnesota law enforcement has recently highlighted a concerning trend involving tech-savvy thieves. These criminals have been employing Wi-Fi signal jammers to temporarily disable the connected security systems of homeowners. It is believed that this technique has been utilized in a total of nine robberies within the past six months.

Law enforcement officials in Edina, Minnesota, have clarified that the string of burglaries occurring over the last six months is not a matter of random victim selection. Rather, the perpetrators are deliberately targeting homes in affluent areas and timing their break-ins when the residences are unoccupied to prevent any potential confrontations.

The notable feature of this particular scenario is the use of Wi-Fi jammers by the offenders to disable the security systems of the residences, such as surveillance cameras. Subsequently, they make off with safes, jewelry, and other high-end items.

Mark Lanterman, an expert in cyber security, explained to KARE11 that jammers do not block signals. Instead, they overload wireless networks, preventing legitimate traffic from reaching devices.

In accordance with federal law, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established regulations that forbid the operation, marketing, or sale of any type of jamming equipment capable of disrupting authorized radio communications. This prohibition extends to various communication services, including cellular networks, personal communication services, police radar, and global positioning systems. It is important to note that no exceptions exist for using such equipment within business establishments, classrooms, residences, or vehicles. Moreover, local law enforcement agencies do not possess independent authority to utilize jamming equipment.

Nonetheless, Wi-Fi bluetooth jammer remain accessible for online purchase from overseas vendors, priced between $40 and $1,000. Reports have surfaced regarding the utilization of these tools to bypass connected home security systems, such as Ring video doorbells, for a number of years now.

Mitigating the risks associated with Wi-Fi jammer burglaries can be achieved through several proposed approaches. One effective solution is to employ a wired camera system that is installed inside and outside your home, connecting directly to a local storage device. Additionally, it is advised to install security alarms and lighting systems that do not rely on wireless networks. Furthermore, considering that these burglaries tend to occur when houses are unoccupied, leaving lights or the television switched on can make your home a less attractive target.