What is a Cell Phone Jammer?
Cell phone jammers block communication from a device by interfering with the signal transmitted between the cell phone and its signal source, like a network tower.
In the United States, using cell phone jammers is considered a violation of federal law. Their illegal status is because cell phone jammers, or signal jammers, can interfere with communication and block access to emergency 911 services.
This article explains how cell phone jammers work, why they are illegal in most countries, what to do if you suspect unauthorized usage of jamming technology, and how the experts at Cellbusters can answer any questions or concerns you may have about this technology.
How Do Cell Phone Jammers Work?
Cell phone jammers work by emitting a radiofrequency (RF) signal stronger than the signal emitted from the nearest cell phone base station or cell phone tower. Although the RF signal is stronger, the frequency is similar to that of cellular phone carriers.
When a cell phone receives two signals at the same frequency, it cannot distinguish between them. The cell phone will then pick up the stronger signal, and the weaker signal will cancel out. This instability disrupts the phone’s ability to function as intended.
Cell phone jamming occurs with the downlink signal. When a cell phone is jammed, the device cannot receive signals from the cell phone tower, meaning there will be no visible signal bars. This also happens when a cell phone goes out of reception.
When are Cell Phone Jammers Used?
Many countries, including the United States, prohibit cell phone jammers in practically every use case. This often also includes the sale, distribution, and marketing of any signal jamming technology, which can be advertised as drone deterrents or privacy tools.
Bad actors, who find workarounds or acquire devices on the black market, use cell phone jammers with malicious intent. Illicit usage includes forcing silence, keeping drones away, or blocking access to emergency responders.
State lawmakers in the United States have been calling to legalize jamming technology in correctional facilities. Currently, the use of cell phone jammers by federal law enforcement agencies is only authorized in limited exceptions. These pro-jamming politicians point to the ubiquitous nature of contraband cell phones, arguing that this enables incarcerated persons to continue criminal activities behind bars. While cell phone jammers are banned, cell phone signal detectors in correctional facilities are legal and common.
Some countries, such as Brazil, New Zealand, and Sweden, have considered exceptions for jamming technology in correctional facilities. In the United Kingdom, law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies, and jails have employed signal jammers since 2012, but their use is subject to strict regulation. The team at Cellbusters works with these overseas customers to provide legal cell phone jamming solutions in conjunction with our cell phone detection technology.
Why are Cell Phone Jammers Illegal?
Cell phone jammers are illegal as they overpower both cellular signal and frequency, obstructing the ability to make 911 emergency calls. Cell phone jammers can also interfere with routine communications and the reception of public safety messages or announcements. When cell phone jammers are in operation, a bad situation can quickly become disastrous.
For these reasons, cell phone jammers are illegal. If a person uses one in the United States, they are breaking federal law.
The use or marketing of a jammer in the U.S. may subject a person to:
- significant monetary penalties (fines of up to $11,000)
- seizure of the unlawful equipment
- criminal sanctions, including imprisonment
Though signal jamming is prohibited, cell phone detectors are legal in the United States.
How Can I Detect a Cell Phone Jammer?
A dropped signal is the first sign that a cell phone jammer may be in use. However, bad network connections can also be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- faulty equipment
- physical obstructions that block the signal
- lawful devices that are operating on the same frequencies
While there are methods to detect cell phone jammers, not all are created equal. Some apps claim to be effective in detecting cell phone jammers. However, these are largely unproven, so proceed with caution.
Spectrum analyzers can detect signal jammers by analyzing frequencies and revealing if any signal has been interfered with. Spectrum analyzers are not commonly available, though, and require specialized knowledge to interpret results.
What to Do if Authorized Communication is Being Jammed
If you suspect authorized communication is being jammed, your first step should be contacting your wireless network provider. You should also consult your owner’s manual and search the Internet for your device/model and specific issue to identify or rule out possible causes.
If you are still suspicious that this isn’t solely a technical hiccup you’re experiencing, file an interference complaint via the FCC Consumer Complaint Center. For urgent assistance, such as if critical communications are at stake, call the FCC’s 24-hour Operations Center immediately at 202-418-112.
Alternatives to Cell Phone Jammers
In some industries (like security, government, or military), detecting or preventing cell phone usage is essential. Similarly, some professions require secure solutions to prevent unauthorized communications.
If this applies to you, consider an RF transmission scanner like Cellbusters’ Zone Protector. This industry-leading device helps personnel control and limit cell phone usage in sensitive areas while obeying legal and ethical standards. The product works by scanning a limited area for radiofrequency signals and alerting the user if a cell phone is present.
Designed to detect and alert, not interfere and disrupt, the Zone Protector also complies with all CE and FCC Certifications. With the Zone Protector, customers get the best of both worlds: maximum protection without risking hefty penalties.
Find Out More about Cell Phone Jammers and Legal Detection Solutions
Cellbusters provides cell phone jamming solutions for our overseas customers in conjunction with our cell phone detection technology. We call this combination of solutions “jamming on demand.” In this situation, a Zone Protector will be programmed to turn on the cell phone jammer when it detects a phone transmission is taking place. When the detected transmission stops, the jammer is turned off.
In today’s world, minimizing unauthorized communication is crucial for maintaining security and privacy. In the United States, our Zone Protector offers an effective and legal solution for monitoring cell phone activity within your facility. If you’re looking to enhance the security of your premises, contact us today for more information on how our technology can help safeguard your operations.
