Georgia Attorney General files FOIA request with FCC to ban cell phone jammers

A request under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) has been lodged by the Attorney General of Georgia with a federal agency regarding the enforcement of a ban on cell phone jammers in prisons across Georgia.

Attorney General Chris Carr’s office said this week that Carr filed a FOIA request with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) following the agency’s “continued refusal to allow state and local law enforcement to jam the signal of contraband cellphones in prisons and jails.” Specifically, Carr is seeking all inter-agency correspondence related to his June 4, 2024, letter urging the FCC to allow for states to use cell phone jamming technology in prisons and jails. Carr is also seeking all documentation related to the FCC’s response denying the State’s request and information regarding the use of cell phone jamming devices at select federal prisons.

In a press release, Carr stated, "The challenge of combating contraband cellphones is compounded by an outdated policy that the federal government is reluctant to address or modify. The solution is evident: by blocking the signals of these contraband devices, we can effectively reduce the violent crimes orchestrated from behind bars and strengthen our public safety efforts. If the Biden administration is not willing to engage with us, they should step aside and let our officers perform their roles effectively."

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) currently enforces a prohibition against the use of cell phone "blockers," a rule that extends to state and local government entities. Nonetheless, within prisons and jails across the United States, illegal cell phones are being used to organize and carry out violent incidents and other criminal actions, thereby endangering correctional officers, visitors, inmates, and the general populace.

A leader of the infamous street gang, the "Yves Saint Laurent Squad," currently imprisoned, utilized a contraband cell phone to orchestrate a hit that resulted in the death of an 88-year-old veteran from Georgia. In North Carolina, another gang leader directed the kidnapping of a prosecutor's father using a smuggled cell phone while incarcerated. Additionally, in California, prison gangs have been known to use illegal cell phones for drug trafficking and to arrange murders within the prison system.

In his June 2024 letter, Carr indicates that the current policy of the FCC is founded on a statute that has been in effect for decades. He elaborates, “The language of 47 U.S.C § 333 does not prevent the FCC from revising its policy to allow state agencies to use cell phone jamming devices in prisons. In fact, the United States Bureau of Prisons has already recognized the potential benefits of these jammers and is permitted to deploy them in various federal penitentiaries, including at least one in Georgia.”

In January 2023, Carr, in collaboration with 21 other attorneys general, advocated to Congressional leaders for the enactment of legislation that would allow states to introduce a cell phone jamming system in correctional facilities.

Collaborating with the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC), the Carr’s Gang Prosecution Unit is actively investigating and prosecuting incarcerated individuals who are alleged to have participated in criminal gang activities, including discussions on the packaging and transportation of contraband into a GDC facility.

Thieves allegedly used signal jammer to fool San Jose man's Nest security camera

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- This enigma unfolds in a manner reminiscent of numerous others, occurring during the late hours of the night.

The story commenced on the front porch of Jim Grubb's residence in San Jose, where the barking of his dog roused him from sleep.

He states that they awoke, descended the stairs, discovered the front door slightly open, and remarked to themselves, "It appears we must have left the door ajar last night."

The following morning, new evidence emerged. Grubb discovered that several items were missing, including a laptop and a drone.

He stated, "I accessed the Nest video camera positioned at our front door. The intruder was present in the front yard; the footage revealed a flashlight, and at times, his beanie cap was visible."

wifi jammer

He continues by stating, "...and as I observe the video, I begin to notice these gaps within it, and I find that there are numerous gaps present."

There are portions of the video where we could potentially discern the thief's face.

Jim reached out to Nest customer support and was informed that the video doorbell had been communicating with the router without any interference prior to the incident.

He expressed his disbelief, stating, "I was astonished by this revelation. Consequently, I began conducting some research and discovered that it is possible to purchase a small microcontroller. This device can effectively de-authorize clients connected to your Wi-Fi network, thereby creating interference."

The items are priced at $7 each. For a total of $50, Grubb discovered a wrist model that provides enhanced precision in control. Although Grubb lacks concrete evidence, he is concerned that thieves might be interfering with Wi-Fi signals.

Google has expressed uncertainty regarding the situation, stating to 7 On Your Side: "Google Nest is dedicated to ensuring the privacy and security of our customers. We are currently aware of an isolated issue with the Nest Hello Doorbell, and our team is thoroughly investigating... there is no indication that the device was intentionally compromised."

Tristan Perry, a technology blogger hailing from Wales, has been examining this matter for some time and asserts that it is not particularly surprising.

It is widely recognized that Wi-Fi can encounter various problems, such as difficulties with mobile devices, interruptions during Zoom calls, or pauses in Netflix streaming, as stated in an interview with 7 On Your Side.

The White House has minimized the significance of recent reports regarding unidentified drones observed in New Jersey and New York. National security officials have asserted that there is currently "no evidence that these sightings present a threat to national security or public safety, nor do they appear to have any foreign ties." Nevertheless, prominent legislators in both the House and Senate are calling for clarification.

Over the past several weeks, residents have reported sightings and recorded videos of drones, which officials assert are commercial-grade rather than standard "hobby" drones. Eyewitness accounts and official statements indicate that these drones may measure as much as 6 feet in diameter. Recently, Republican Representative Jeff Van Drew of New Jersey exacerbated public concern by proposing on Fox News that these drones originated from an Iranian "mothership" located off the East Coast. The Department of Defense has refuted this assertion.

House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated that he anticipates receiving a classified briefing regarding the drones in the near future. Democratic Senators Cory Booker and Andy King from New Jersey, along with New York Senators Chuck Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand, have collectively addressed letters to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, FBI Director Christopher Wray, and Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Michael Whitaker, seeking briefings on the matter.

Representative Josh Gottheimer from New Jersey, who serves on the Intelligence Committee, stated that he received briefings regarding the drones both last week and this week. He expressed, "I do not believe there is an immediate threat to public safety. However, the public has a right to be informed further."

Numerous videos have gained significant traction, accumulating tens of thousands of views across social media platforms, which has raised alarms. However, public anxiety escalated on Wednesday when Representative Jeff Van Drew stated on Fox News that the drones originated from an Iranian "mothership" located off the "East Coast of the United States."

He called for the drones to be "shot down."

Specific devices are used to interfere with drone signals (called drone jammers), but these devices are usually only used by security forces.

Large, mysterious drones reported in recent weeks flying over parts of New Jersey appear to evade detection by traditional methods such as helicopters and radios, according to a Department of Homeland Security briefing to state lawmakers on Wednesday.

In a post on the social media platform X, Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia described the drones as up to 6 feet in diameter and sometimes flying with their lights off. The Republican congresswoman from Morris County is one of several state and local lawmakers who have met with state police and Department of Homeland Security officials to discuss a series of sightings from the New York City area to New Jersey and west to parts of Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia.

The devices do not appear to be flown by amateurs, Fantasia wrote.

Many residents in the tri-state area may be wondering what remedies they can take.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said an investigation into last month's drone sightings is underway. He briefed DHS chief Alejandro Mayorkas by phone on Wednesday.

Authorities say they are seeking information about drone sightings and are asking witnesses to call the FBI hotline at 1-800-225-5324 or leave a tip on the agency's website.

New Jersey state of emergency: Can you shoot down a drone?

As vigilance grows over unidentified swarms of drones -- many of which are reportedly larger than what hobbyists would acquire -- residents have been asking if they can be shot down.

The question is coming up more and more frequently as the use of drones for commercial and recreational purposes has surged. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, as of Oct. 1, there were 791,597 registered drones in the U.S. Of course, there may be others that aren't registered.

So, can you shoot a hovering drone with a gun or other projectile? The answer is no.

The FAA says it's illegal to shoot any aircraft, including drones.

A retired New Jersey fire captain recently faced criminal charges for shooting a drone that was hovering over his Florida home with a 9mm pistol. He believed the drone was spying on him. This is a Walmart delivery drone.

Shooting down a drone isn't the only way to disable it. Other methods include setting up nets and jamming drone signals.

How to stop drones from flying over your property?

Even if a drone flies over your property, the Federal Aviation Administration says homeowners can't control that airspace.

You can contact a professional drone removal service that can use nets and other drone jamming gun equipment to block a drone without damaging it, but it's expensive. You can file a complaint with the FAA online. Or you can report the drone to the police.

In the current era of extensive connectivity, where communication is widespread, signal jammers play a significant role in the management and control of wireless signals. The primary function of a signal jammer is to create a specific area where designated frequencies are disabled, thus inhibiting communication through those channels.

The use of signal blockers encompasses a broad spectrum of applications across different industries. In high-security areas, including government facilities, military bases, and prisons, these advanced jammers are vital for maintaining security by preventing unauthorized communications and blocking the remote activation of explosive devices. Additionally, cell phone signal jammers are commonly employed in environments such as theaters, meeting rooms, and examination halls to ensure that concentration is preserved and fairness is maintained by disrupting signals.

Moreover, in the context of education, GSM signal jammers can be deployed to restrict student access to mobile phones during instructional time, thereby cultivating a focused learning environment. In business scenarios, WiFi jammers are instrumental in preventing electronic eavesdropping and in safeguarding sensitive information from being transmitted through unauthorized pathways.

While the utilization of RF blockers and GPS jammers is restricted because they may interfere with emergency communication systems and SOS signals, their measured use has proven advantageous in improving security, privacy, and productivity in various circumstances. By selectively blocking certain radio frequencies, frequency jammers offer a strategic approach to effectively managing wireless communications.

Here are the main reasons why you might want to buy a signal jammer:

• To protect your cell phone conversations from eavesdropping, it is essential to implement a communication jammer. This apparatus effectively blocks any unwanted signals, ensuring that your discussions are kept confidential.
• Mitigate risks from surveillance technology: Protect yourself from GSM bugs and analogous eavesdropping instruments. Jammers will counteract these threats, thereby safeguarding your privacy.
• If there are indications that a GPS tracker is installed on your vehicle, a GPS jammer can be deployed to interfere with satellite signals, which will obstruct any tracking of your movements.
• Create a noise-free environment: In settings like meeting rooms, offices, or any area requiring sustained concentration, a jammer can be utilized to establish a "quiet zone" that prevents disruptions from mobile phones and other electronic devices.
• Complete security: Protect yourself from surreptitious data collection across all possible avenues. Flexible jammers can accommodate a variety of signal types to ensure your privacy remains intact.

When there is a belief that someone may be eavesdropping through a GSM bug, a GSM cell phone jammer can be utilized to disable all listening devices and smartphones within its effective range. This device additionally aids in preventing disruptive cell phone calls during meetings or other times when focus is essential.

If you find yourself troubled by the possibility of hidden cameras spying on you, the use of wireless camera blockers and radio signal suppressors can effectively block signals transmitted by cameras over radio or WiFi, thereby preserving your privacy.

These situations exemplify a few typical contexts in which our devices are notably effective. It is important to determine which frequencies require jamming. If there is any ambiguity, considering a multi-range jammer, such as a cell/GPS or cell/Wi-Fi jammer, may be beneficial, as it can cover multiple signal types. Additionally, signal suppressors come in various ranges. For smaller areas, like a car or a small room, a compact and affordable jammer is suitable. For larger environments, a more powerful, possibly stationary jammer is essential to ensure complete signal blocking.

With the investment in a suitable jammer, you can effectively shield your privacy and maintain oversight of your personal and professional spaces.

Picture this scenario: You are on the verge of savoring a delightful meal at your preferred restaurant when a loud cell phone rings from the adjacent table, disrupting the ambiance. The individual responsible not only takes the call but also engages in a boisterous and trivial conversation.

Interruptions of this nature significantly detract from the dining experience for all patrons. The enjoyment of one’s meal is compromised, and individuals often find themselves irritated and distracted by the impolite actions of others. From intrusive phone rings to disruptive dialogues, mobile devices serve as a prominent source of disturbance in public settings. This not only inconveniences fellow diners but also undermines the tranquil ambiance that restaurants strive to cultivate.

Why People Are Switching to Feature Phones

A growing number of Americans are opting to replace their smartphones with basic mobile phones, commonly referred to as "dumb phones," which are limited to making calls and sending text messages. This transition aims to mitigate the distractions associated with what is often termed "zombie mode." The popularity of dumb phones is on the rise, with 2.8 million units sold in the United States last year. Users of these devices report experiencing a greater sense of calm and enhanced focus on their immediate surroundings.

An increasing number of individuals are opting for feature phones as a means to evade the relentless influx of notifications and the urge to perpetually engage with social media. These more basic devices enable users to focus more on their environment and interpersonal connections. Sales of feature phones have experienced a significant rise, with 2.8 million units sold in the United States in the previous year. This trend indicates a growing desire for technology that is simpler and less distracting.

Users of feature phones frequently report enhanced clarity of thought, improved sleep quality, and stronger interpersonal relationships. The absence of continuous distractions allows them to allocate more time and energy to engaging in real-life activities and meaningful conversations.

Cell Phone Jammers in Restaurants

Certain restaurants have implemented cell phone jammers, and patrons have reacted favorably, appreciating the serene and more personal ambiance. By obstructing mobile signals, these establishments can foster a tranquil setting where diners can concentrate on their meals and companions without disturbances from ringing devices and boisterous discussions. Numerous customers indicate an increase in satisfaction and a more pleasurable dining experience in venues that utilize signal jammers to uphold a peaceful atmosphere.

Cargo theft poses a significant challenge for logistics firms in Mexico. Criminals employ a range of strategies to pilfer cargo, such as hijacking, robbery, and burglary. Recently, a particularly advanced and complex technique has surfaced: the utilization of signal jammers. These devices interfere with GPS and cellular signals, complicating the efforts of law enforcement to monitor and recover stolen cargo.

While the issue of frequency jamming devices is becoming increasingly prevalent, there are various strategies that can mitigate their impact on your organization. This document provides an overview of the functioning of wifi jammer, the reasons behind their popularity, and the measures you can implement to safeguard your supply chain from potential disruptions.

How signal jammers function

Signal jammers are electronic devices designed to emit radio signals that disrupt communication systems, including GPS signals, cellular networks, Wi-Fi networks, and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. These devices are often employed by criminals to obstruct the signals of tracking devices fitted in cargo trucks, thereby complicating efforts by authorities to ascertain the true location of a shipment.

Various types of cargo are susceptible to theft through the use of cell phone jammer, encompassing both high-value shipments and smaller consignments. Items such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and automotive components are particularly attractive to thieves, as they can be easily repackaged and sold illegally. This situation poses significant challenges for supply chains and also impacts consumers, as the theft of goods can lead to fluctuations in pricing and the availability of essential products.

In recent years, the prevalence of jammers in cargo theft has emerged as a significant issue in Mexico. Notably, between January and June 2024, 64% of theft incidents in the country were associated with the use of signal jamming devices. Despite their illegal status, the adoption of these tools is increasing among organized crime factions. Consequently, the Mexican government is implementing measures to enhance the criminalization and penalties related to their usage.

The Mexican government’s fight against signal jammers

In response to the challenge posed by signal blockers, the Mexican government has implemented regulations governing the use of such devices. The Anti-Jammer Law, which was enacted on January 25, 2020, was advocated by the National Association of Vehicle Tracking and Protection Companies (ANERPV). This legislation empowers authorities to impose prison sentences ranging from 12 to 15 years on those who manufacture, sell, or utilize jammers, or who facilitate their use.

The Anti-Jammer Law represents a crucial advancement in enhancing cargo security within Mexico. Nevertheless, it is insufficient to depend exclusively on legal frameworks to address this issue. Logistics firms must also implement proactive strategies to safeguard their cargo, which may include utilizing various tracking devices, investing in physical security measures, and continuously overseeing their shipments for any potential disturbances.

Security management presents significant challenges, and unprepared supply chains can be vulnerable to exploitation by criminals. However, partnering with Overhaul equips you with essential tools to counteract signal jammers, enhance your defenses against cargo theft, and address various other security concerns.

The emergence of sophisticated theft techniques has rendered traditional security measures, such as cameras and burglar alarm systems, potentially ineffective. Thieves have developed methods to disrupt Wi-Fi signals, which can compromise the functionality of these systems. Law enforcement officials recommend that homeowners and business owners implement additional strategies to protect themselves from such criminal activities.

Contemporary residences predominantly depend on Wi-Fi signals to operate security system burglar alarms and surveillance devices, such as doorbell cameras.

Law enforcement officials recommend that residents consider converting their Wi-Fi surveillance systems to wired connections. They advise consulting with network providers or electricians to establish a direct connection between the burglar alarm system and the router using cables. This approach eliminates reliance on Wi-Fi, thereby mitigating the risk posed by Wi-Fi jammers.

The FCC advises consumers to promptly reach out to their internet service provider if they experience interruptions in their home Wi-Fi. This action will help determine whether the issue stems from a device malfunction or if it may be the result of someone employing a signal jammers to disrupt the service.

VERMILIAN PARISH, La. ( KLFY ) — Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who posed as a cable installer and attempted to break into a Vermilion Parish home.

The Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man (pictured below) driving a white SUV attempted to break into a home on Red Rose Lane near Louisiana Highway 338 on Tuesday. Officers say he posed as a cable or security camera installer and used a suspected Wi-Fi jammer while trying to pick the front door lock.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Sheriff Chad Touchet at 337-898-4403.

Today, I encourage you to reflect on this particular question. You may wonder, "Why is this important to me?" In answer to your inquiry, I would like to emphasize that while it may not be as critical as issues such as texting while driving, this subject is gaining increasing attention in contemporary discussions. Therefore, I urge you to contemplate it thoroughly and explore different perspectives. Additionally, I will provide some examples to stimulate your thinking.

Texting in public places

Today, I encourage you to reflect on this particular question. You may wonder, "Why is this important to me?" In answer to your inquiry, I would like to emphasize that while this issue may not seem as critical as texting while driving, it is gaining increasing attention in contemporary discussions. Therefore, I urge you to contemplate this matter thoroughly and explore different perspectives. Additionally, I will provide some examples to stimulate your thinking.

Engaging in texting while walking, whether you are driving or navigating a crosswalk, poses a significant risk not only to your own safety but also to the safety of those around you. For instance, if you are distracted by your phone while approaching a crosswalk, you may fail to notice that the traffic light is red and that vehicles have the right of way. This could lead to a situation where you step onto the road and are struck by a vehicle, particularly if the driver is also distracted by their phone. Alternatively, the driver may attempt to stop suddenly, risking a collision with the vehicle behind them. In such scenarios, the outcome remains uncertain and potentially dangerous.

In response to this issue, various nations are implementing diverse strategies. For instance, in London, mats have been installed on poles to mitigate the impact on pedestrians who are distracted by texting while walking. While this may appear amusing, it is less humorous for those who collide with the poles. Alternatively, pedestrians have the option to refrain from texting while navigating their surroundings.mobile phone jammer making your life and the lives of many people around you safer.

9 burglaries in Minnesota suspected of disabling cameras by jamming Wi-Fi

- As technology becomes cheaper and more accessible, smart security systems become vulnerable

An examination of news articles concerning burglaries involving the use of Wi-Fi jammers indicates a significant amount of prior documentation of this activity. In January 2020, a post on the Ring community highlighted an incident where one of the company's wireless doorbells failed to detect a porch thief due to a Wi-Fi deauthentication attack. Furthermore, reports of burglars employing Wi-Fi jamming methods were readily available in 2021, 2022, and 2023, with such accounts becoming increasingly common over time.

Ring has been identified as a key player in the promotion of video doorbells aimed at addressing various home security challenges. However, it is important to note that other wireless smart home security products, such as those from Blink (Amazon) and Nest (Google), are also vulnerable to interference from wireless signals. Alarmingly, by the year 2024, the act of jamming Wi-Fi signals is expected to become significantly easier for potential intruders. jammer device can be conveniently purchased online at relatively low prices, ranging from $40 to $1,000. Although the use of jammers is illegal in the United States, they remain readily accessible through online platforms.

For individuals contemplating the efficacy of a wireless component home security system, several recommendations are worth considering. Initially, establish a physical connection that facilitates wired access and enables local storage of recorded footage. Additionally, leverage smart home technology to create the illusion of occupancy within your residence. Furthermore, your device might possess the capability to issue alerts in the event of a lost signal or connection, making it prudent to explore these settings.

A suspected serial burglar in Edina, Minnesota, reportedly employed a Wi-Fi jammers to interfere with security cameras linked to the internet prior to stealing valuables from victims and making his escape. While Minnesota is not typically recognized as a center for technological innovation, it may not come as a shock to learn that incidents of burglaries facilitated by Wi-Fi jammers have been reported across the United States for several years. It is important to note that even criminals are increasingly utilizing technology, prompting homeowners to consider implementing protective measures.

The Edina police believe that nine residential burglaries that occurred over the last six months may have been executed with the aid of Wi-Fi jammers, which would prevent investigators from acquiring video footage of the incidents.

The thieves’ modus operandi is believed to be:

• Homes in affluent areas
• The thieves carefully monitor the homes
• The thieves avoid confrontation, so appear to wait until the homes are empty
• The thieves deploy Wi-Fi jammers when the homes are empty

Jammers primarily create confusion among wireless devices rather than completely blocking signals. They generally fail to transmit actual traffic due to the overwhelming of wireless communication.