The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued an advisory against the use of cellular signal jammers, global positioning system (GPS) blockers or other signal jamming devices by the general public, deeming it illegal unless specifically permitted by the government.
To this end, in a memorandum issued in public interest on July 1, 2022 the DoT clarified that only states, union territories, defence forces and central police organisations can procure and use jammers approved by the government. The advisory stated that private sector organisations and private individuals cannot procure or use jammers in India.
Meanwhile, the advisory further noted that the jammers can also be used by examination conducting bodies under the union/state government or union territories from authorised vendors and approved models after seeking prior permission from competent authority. Further, the DoT stated that it is unlawful to advertise, sell, distribute, import or otherwise market jammers in India, except as permitted by the government guidelines.
Besides, DoT has deemed the use of mobile signal repeaters and boosters by individuals as unlawful. The memorandum further noted that the unauthorised use of repeaters can adversely interfere with and disrupt public telecommunication services by jeopardising the quality and coverage of such services. Earlier in January, 2022, the DoT had issued a stern warning to e-commerce companies including Amazon, Flipkart, Snapdeal, Alibaba, Aliexpress, Ebay and others against facilitating the sale of wireless jammers.
Commenting on the initiative, Lt. Gen. Dr. SP Kochhar, director general, Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), said, “We welcome the DoT’s advisory to combat the challenges posed by installation of signal repeaters/boosters. Citizens are unaware that buying, selling, installation and possession of mobile signal boosters (MSBs) is an illegal and punishable offence under Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 and India Telegraph Act, 1885. It’s unauthorised use, adversely interferes with telecom services and we are glad that the government of India has recognised its significance in delivering a flawless network and telecom experience to citizens across the country. This advisory will help spread awareness and make citizens cognisant of the debilitating effects that repeaters have on the overall network. Telecom service providers are committed to work with the government in its ambition to build a network which can help the telecom sector achieve its goal of digitally connected India.”
