Amazon is one of several retailers being investigated by the Federal Communications Commission for allegedly marketing and selling wireless signal jamming devices that are illegal for use by U.S. consumers. File photo: James Atoa/UPI
March 20 (UPI) — The Federal Communications Commission is investigating Amazon and other retailers for allegedly marketing and selling wireless signal jammers.
The FCC acknowledged the investigation Wednesday but reiterated that radio signal or radio frequency jamming devices that interfere with cell phone or GPS signals are illegal for use or sale by U.S. consumers.
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According to the FCC's website, “Federal law prohibits the operation of any type of jamming device that interferes with authorized wireless communications, including cellular telephones, personal communication services (PCS), police radar, and global positioning systems (GPS). “It is prohibited to sell it on the market.”
The FCC first disclosed its investigation to NBC News, saying multiple retailers and drone technology companies were illegally selling the jamming devices online, with as many as nine independent sellers found on Amazon. This was after the network reported.
FCC spokesman Jonathan Uriarte said in a statement Wednesday that the agency has “indicted retailers, including Amazon, for potentially violating Commission rules related to the marketing and sale of devices without appropriate FCC authorization. “Multiple investigations are continuing.”
Amazon has not commented on the investigation.
“Signal jamming devices can prevent you or others from making 9-1-1 or other emergency calls and pose a significant risk to public safety communications, as well as other forms of routine communication. “They may also interfere with communications,” the FCC warned, adding that “even local law enforcement agencies do not have independent authority to use jamming devices.”
“There are no exceptions for use in businesses, classrooms, residences, or vehicles,” the FCC said.
