DATE: June 13, 2024

SUBJECT: Daytime Burglar Using a Signal Jammer Apprehended

RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-NR-0612

CONTACT: Sheriff Noah Robinson

AUTHORITY: Sheriff Noah Robinson

Arrest daytime burglar using jammer

The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office has apprehended a suspect in connection with a residential burglary that took place during the day in Cambridge Village, located in northern Vanderburgh County.

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, a couple returned to their residence in Cambridge Village to discover two intruders inside their home. The suspects quickly fled the premises, with one making his getaway in a gray Jeep.

The Sheriff’s Office received a detailed description of the vehicle. A deputy patrolling the vicinity observed a Jeep that corresponded to the provided description traveling south on Highway 41 near Baseline Road. The driver, later identified as Jaime Yovany Riquelme Riveras, fit the description provided by the homeowners.

Riveras informed deputies that he was en route from St. Louis, Missouri, to Orlando, Florida, and he claimed he had not stopped in the Evansville area. Subsequently, a search was conducted using the FLOCK camera system. The vehicle in question, along with its corresponding license plate, was identified on FLOCK entering Cambridge Village about an hour before the burglary occurred. Cambridge Village has recently collaborated with the Sheriff’s Office to implement the FLOCK license plate reader system in their community.

During the vehicle search, deputies discovered pry bars, cell phones, and clothing that matched the description provided by the homeowners. Additionally, a signal-jamming device was found in the back of the vehicle. This device is designed to disrupt Wi-Fi and cellular signals, making its operation illegal under federal law. When activated, it renders cameras and other security systems reliant on these signals inoperative. Furthermore, when the vehicle was stopped, the deputy's in-car computer malfunctioned, likely due to the ongoing operation of the signal jammers. However, the FLOCK system remains largely unaffected by such cell phone jammer, as it stores images locally in a buffer and transmits them once the connection is restored.

Riveras was questioned at the Sheriff’s Office Operations Center regarding his participation in the burglary. He asked for legal representation and refrained from making any further comments. He did inform the investigators that he came to the United States in April and that he was originally from Chile.

Following the eyewitness testimonies and visual evidence obtained from the FLOCK system, authorities secured a search warrant to extract data from two confiscated cell phones. One device was retrieved from Riveras at the time of his arrest, while the other was taken from the vehicle. GPS data indicated that Riveras' phone was located at the victim's residence during the timeframe of the burglary.

Sheriff Noah Robinson remarked, “Despite the advanced technology utilized by criminals, they were outsmarted by vigilant homeowners and attentive Sheriff’s deputies. I extend my gratitude to the Cambridge Village Homeowners Association for their willingness to embrace FLOCK and collaborate with the Sheriff’s Office. This system will yield benefits in the future.”

The Sheriff’s Office is collaborating with federal law enforcement agencies to seek further charges concerning the jamming device. GPS data retrieved from the suspects' phones has already linked them to multiple burglaries in other states. Although Rivera's accomplice is still at large, the investigation is ongoing.

When cell phone zappers were initially introduced, consumers faced limited choices. These devices were notably large and cumbersome, making them challenging to transport, as they exceeded the size of a typical briefcase.

Nowadays, there is a wider variety of cell phone zapper options on the market, with many models compact enough to comfortably fit in your hand.

A significant advantage of owning a compact phone zapper is its portability, allowing you to take it with you wherever you travel. This offers several benefits, including:

• Have you ever found yourself waiting in line at a fast food restaurant behind someone who refuses to silence their cell phone and place their order?
• Have you ever found yourself on your morning bus ride, compelled to hear every intricate detail of a fellow commuter's wild night out?
• Imagine investing a significant amount of money for a night at the cinema, only to have another audience member spoil the experience by describing the film to his friends on his cell phone.

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While the selection of small cell phone zappers may not be as extensive as that of larger models available today, they are sufficiently sized to provide tranquility in your personal environment.

It is important to be aware that numerous novelty items available in the market offer coverage for areas smaller than 6 feet, often priced under $100, which may not be practical.

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Georgia attorney general asks federal government to take action on cell phone jammers in prisons and jails

Attorney General Chris Carr is calling on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to promptly authorize the use of cell phone jamming devices in state prisons and local jails. The FCC currently has a ban on cell phone jammers, which applies to both state and local authorities. However, contraband cell phones are being utilized in correctional facilities across the nation to coordinate violent acts and other criminal activities, creating significant safety concerns for correctional staff, visitors, inmates, and the general public.

Carr stated, "Implementing cell phone jamming technology in prisons and jails is the most effective method to safeguard the public from the dangers posed by contraband cell phones; however, the FCC persists in hindering our initiatives. This antiquated policy restricts essential law enforcement resources, creates perilous environments for correctional staff, and facilitates the growth of criminal organizations both within and beyond prison confines. Our dedication to fighting violent crime in all its forms drives us to urge the federal government to eliminate this significant obstacle to public safety."

In the state of Georgia, authorities seized 8,074 contraband cell phones in 2023, with an additional 5,482 confiscated so far in 2024. Recently, a prominent figure from the notorious "Yves Saint Laurent Squad" gang utilized a smuggled cell phone to orchestrate a hit, leading to the tragic death of an 88-year-old veteran from Georgia. Similarly, a gang leader in North Carolina managed to arrange the kidnapping of a prosecutor's father using a cell phone while incarcerated. In California, prison gangs have exploited contraband cell phones to orchestrate murders within the prison system and facilitate drug trafficking.

"Numerous instances nationwide illustrate how contraband cell phones can serve as lethal tools in the hands of inmates, enabling them to perpetuate their criminal activities. We are outraged by the lengths to which these individuals will go to maintain their operations and jeopardize public safety," stated Georgia Department of Corrections Commissioner Tyrone Oliver. "As the methods for smuggling contraband cell phones into our facilities become more sophisticated, the availability of jamming technology is crucial in our fight against these efforts. We are grateful for Attorney General Carr's support in our unwavering dedication to public safety and the secure functioning of our facilities."

In his correspondence, Carr highlights that the FCC's policy is based on legislation established in the early 1990s, prior to the time when prison inmates started utilizing contraband cell phones for planning and participating in illegal and hazardous activities.

Carr also notes that the wording of 47 U.S.C § 333 does not prevent the FCC from changing its stance to permit state agencies to utilize cell phone jamming devices within correctional facilities. Moreover, the United States Bureau of Prisons has acknowledged the potential benefits of cell phone jammers and is authorized to deploy such devices in multiple federal prisons, including at least one located in Georgia.

Yesterday, local news highlighted the issue of students using mobile phones to cheat in academic environments. My initial reaction was one of understanding; cheating has been a persistent issue throughout history. The methods of cheating are not particularly innovative. Whether it is writing answers on their hands, programming calculators for assistance, using Google on their smartphones, or quietly communicating with peers, students have always resorted to dishonest tactics. This is not particularly newsworthy.

The report discussed a 19-year-old college student who acknowledged his frequent use of his phone to cheat, stating, "I cheat all the time; it’s not a major issue. If the teacher doesn’t notice, it doesn’t matter. I am just one student among millions in this city, trying to secure a slightly better grade on a test."

A fellow student conveyed a perspective that, since dishonesty and cheating are rampant, there is no reason for them to refrain from engaging in such behavior. They pointed out that athletes often resort to performance-enhancing drugs, corporations frequently falsify their financial records and utilize offshore tax havens, and banks grant loans to individuals who are unlikely to repay them. In a context where honesty is scarce across many sectors, they pondered why they should not strive to take advantage of every opportunity.

The report reveals an intriguing insight: it is challenging to accept that any students did not think to use Google during a history test. They have now gained knowledge. "Ah, so that was the Union commander at the Battle of Antietam. Thank you, Internet!"

To effectively address the issue of mobile phone cheating, several strategies can be employed. One prominent solution is to implement a strict ban on mobile phones within the classroom setting. Although a minority may attempt to circumvent this rule, the majority's adherence will make it easier to detect those who do not comply. Additionally, one might explore the option of acquiring or building a cell phone jammer. These devices are relatively easy to find and typically cost a few hundred dollars, effectively disabling mobile internet access. It is important to note, however, that the legality of cell phone jamming can vary, so it is prudent to review local laws to avoid any potential legal challenges.

In summary, students who are motivated to cheat will find methods to do so, whether through a mobile phone or a piece of paper. Teachers may choose to advocate for honesty, although the reasons for students to comply may be dubious. Alternatively, one could consider enclosing the classroom in a Faraday Cage. Ultimately, one might have to reconcile with the prevailing circumstances.

Russian analysts assert that Ukraine adeptly employs drones and jamming technology to infiltrate the port of Kursk.

Russian military observers report that the Ukrainian armed forces have effectively employed drones and jamming jammer device technology to penetrate the Kursk region of Russia.

During the invasion, it has been reported that Kiev employed signal jamming technology to diminish Moscow's surveillance effectiveness and to restrict its border defenses.

This enabled Ukrainian drone blocker to execute unexpected assaults on the ground as forces advanced into enemy territory.

Samuel Bendett, a military expert from Russia, remarked that Ukraine's adoption of this strategy was to be expected, considering the substantial resources it has allocated to electronic warfare.

He informed CBC News, "It appears to be achievable. We are aware that Ukraine is leading Russia in the advancement of these tactics and techniques."

Carefully planned

Data published by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) indicates that Ukraine has conducted attacks on a minimum of 800 square kilometers (308 square miles) of Russian territory.

It has been reported that Iranian forces have gained control over more than 28 towns in Russia following the incursion that occurred last week.

Ukraine has not disclosed the specific details of the successful offensive, although certain information has been made available to the media.

Oleksiy Goncharenko stated that the military operation was executed with careful planning.

I recognize the necessity of launching an offensive in unexpected areas. This is precisely the strategy employed by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, as he elaborated. "By implementing innovative tactics and utilizing advanced technologies, we gain a significant advantage."

Did the drone army succeed?

In 2022, Ukraine revealed its intentions to utilize donations for the establishment of a "drone army" aimed at combating Russian aggression.

A new military branch focused specifically on drone warfare was also established.

The substantial investment in drone technology appears to have yielded significant results, enabling Kiev to deploy its kamikaze drones deep within Russian territory.

Ivan Havrilyuk, the Deputy Defense Minister of Ukraine, stated, "We possess all the necessary resources to achieve victory in the conflict with the Russian Federation. We are fully equipped to substitute personnel across all domains, including the trenches, maritime, aerial, and underwater operations."

Do you have a doorbell camera mounted at your front entrance? The answer is likely affirmative. In a world where smart technology is on the rise, security devices such as doorbell cameras have become essential for many homes. However, in shared driveways in Palmdale, California, and similar areas, these devices can be surprisingly ineffective.

We have received a message from Maureen, who indicated that her Ring doorbell camera, installed in her driveway, has been persistently unable to record her neighbors or their guests. Despite being correctly positioned and fully powered, the camera seems to struggle with understanding the cause of its repeated impacts with the wall. This scenario leads to a significant inquiry: Could a signal jammer device be affecting the Ring camera's performance?

It has been established that wireless jammer device interfere with the effective operation of Ring doorbell cameras. These devices work by sending out radio frequency signals that block or disrupt the communication between the camera and its receiver, leading to a temporary inability to function. What techniques can be employed to determine if such a device is in operation?

How to detect jamming attacks on security cameras using noise levels

The levels of noise present in the vicinity of a security camera can hint at potential interference issues. These levels are assessed in dBm (decibel milliwatts), where lower values correspond to lesser noise interference, and higher values are associated with more significant noise interference.

By using a decibel meter such as this, homeowners like Maureen can ascertain whether there are any abnormal activities or fluctuations in noise levels in the vicinity of her cameras that could signify interference.

Unexpected Interference

In the East Greensboro area of North Carolina, Carol demonstrates her Ring cameras, which are affixed to both doors of her residence to monitor and document the activities occurring around her home. It seems that someone has successfully learned how to disable her internet, thus circumventing the surveillance capabilities of the Ring cameras.

Use a separate network for your devices

Creating a separate network for devices such as Ring cameras can provide an enhanced level of security. These devices are capable of communicating with other devices on the same network, including laptops, smartphones, or tablets. However, some of these devices may have weak security features or vulnerabilities that could enable hackers to gain remote access or control, potentially compromising your privacy and data.

One effective means of protecting these devices is through their isolation from other networks. This requires the creation of a separate Wi-Fi network specifically for your internet-connected devices, like your Ring doorbell camera, while ensuring that no other traffic is permitted on this network. This practice safeguards against unauthorized access or control over any data transmitted. Moreover, it prevents malicious actors from leveraging your IoT device as a gateway to compromise other devices on your main network.

Authorities have arrested a Chicago resident for the illegal use of a cell phone jammer aboard a train.

Last week, Dennis Nicholl, a financial analyst at the University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago, was taken into custody for achieving what many commuters worldwide desire: the suppression of cell phone calls.

The extraordinary narrative began in late 2015, as Chicagoans encountered issues with their mobile phones losing service while traveling on local trains. Nicholl was subsequently identified as the perpetrator of these disruptions after Brian Raida, an IT worker from Chicago, shared a photo on Reddit that showed Nicholl holding a signal jammers in one hand and a beer can in the other. This illegal apparatus can effectively disable cell phone and radio signals throughout an entire area.

According to Aaron Robinson, who observed Nicholl while he was driving, "It seems to me that he relished the experience of commanding the car," as he conveyed to the Chicago Tribune. "It’s akin to a modern-day expression of 'You young people with cell phones, keep off my lawn.'"

On March 8, a collaborative undercover operation involving the Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Transportation Authority, and the Federal Communications Commission led to the arrest of Nicol. He has been charged with a felony for utilizing jammers that can incapacitate police radios and hinder emergency calls. As a result, he is at risk of incarceration and may incur a fine reaching $100,000.

To the disappointment of numerous individuals, residents of the Windy City are now allowed to make personal calls while traveling.

A retailer of online cell phone jammer has attempted to take advantage of New Yorkers' wish for a quieter subway experience. They posted on Twitter, "Cell service is set to arrive at 6 #NYC #Subway stations - why not consider a cell phone #jammer to limit others' conversations?"

Concerning Nicol's motivations, he asserts that his primary aim was to embark on his journey in tranquility.

Anxious man uses cell phone jammer to block conversation on bus

This device resembles a walkie-talkie; however, it possesses capabilities that exceed initial impressions. When activated, a cell phone jammer can effectively disrupt all cellular service within its vicinity. The use of a cell phone jammer is not only illegal under federal law, but it may also incur penalties of up to $16,000 and potential imprisonment.

However, this did not deter Eric from Philadelphia, who had grown increasingly frustrated with the incessant chatter of cell phone users on SEPTA's 44 bus. When Eric wishes to avoid the conversation, he activates the signal jammers, as reported by NBC 10 in Philadelphia.

Eric informed NBC 10 that numerous individuals tend to be quite boisterous and lack an understanding of personal boundaries. When he perceives that they are causing him discomfort, he adjusts the antenna and activates the switch.

Eric asserts that he was unaware of the illegality of obstructing cell phone signals, believing it to be a "gray area." He maintained that he thought the prohibition applied solely to the interference of television or radio signals.

Nevertheless, he does not genuinely regret his actions.

He expressed to NBC 10, "I believe I have a personal connection to law enforcement, and to be honest, I take pride in that."

The jammers utilized in this situation are deemed illegal due to their interference with cell phone communications during emergencies, as well as their obstruction of critical signals such as police radios and other two-way communication devices.

Upon discovering the illegality of the device, Eric stated his intention to dispose of the jammer he had acquired, which ABC News estimated to have cost $300.

However, the more significant concern is that Eric is not the sole individual engaging in this jamming exercise.

According to Forbes, individuals in the New Jersey and New York regions are similarly utilizing these devices. Eric's experience may serve as a reminder to them regarding the illegality of employing such potent devices.

The Global Positioning System (GPS) has become nearly as prevalent as electricity. It is no longer merely a tool for travelers; it is now essential for landing aircraft, directing maritime vessels, synchronizing data across communication networks, and overseeing the distribution of extensive power grids.

Our reliance on the accurate positioning and timing features of GPS has grown to such an extent that we frequently overlook its significance, presuming it will consistently be available when required.

The original purpose of GPS was to monitor military assets and vehicles, and it was not intended for the extensive range of civilian applications we see today. Recent developments have highlighted the vulnerabilities of GPS to security threats, which could potentially disrupt not only individual devices but also critical national infrastructure.

Small Cost, Big Consequence

The initial concern arises from a phenomenon that specialists fear is evolving into a trend: the utilization of inexpensive GPS jammers.

GPS jammers, commonly referred to as "anti-GPS" devices, can be purchased for personal use starting at a price of $30. These devices can be compact, with some models resembling a 12-volt car cigarette lighter power adapter that connects to an antenna.

These devices are promoted on the internet as tools designed to safeguard personal privacy and hinder tracking of one's location. Nevertheless, there have been instances in the UK where criminals and car thieves have exploited these gadgets to conceal illicit actions.

Peter Large, the vice president of Trimble, a company based in Sunnyvale, California that specializes in advanced positioning systems, expressed concern regarding the emergence of these products from Chinese factories. He stated, "The proliferation of these items could have catastrophic consequences."

GPS jammers function by disrupting the frequencies associated with one of the widely utilized GPS bands. Given that GPS signals are naturally weak, transmitting at only 25 watts from satellites located approximately 12,500 miles away, they are susceptible to interruption or interference with devices like portable navigation systems.

Fleet operators of cars and trucks frequently install onboard GPS receivers in their vehicles, leading some drivers to utilize signal jammers to obstruct their employers from monitoring their locations.

A report released in November by the National Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) Advisory Commission, which operates under government mandate, stated, "We presently do not possess sufficient capabilities to identify and address GPS jammers." The report further noted, "It required several months to pinpoint the device that was disrupting the new GPS landing system being implemented at Newark Airport in New Jersey."

The next generation of air traffic control systems, responsible for managing aircraft during flight, will be fundamentally based on GPS signals, as opposed to the current reliance on radar and human supervision.

Beyond the management of road and marine traffic, as well as the oversight of data and power networks, GPS signals play a crucial role in timing traffic lights and ensuring that automated agricultural machinery effectively plows and harvests fields.

Disrupting any of these systems could result in significant damage.

Trimble's Large emphasized that GPS jammers have the potential to be utilized as a weapon.

The report from the National PNT Advisory Commission reached a consensus, recommending that GPS utilized in national security contexts, including fighter jets and various military apparatus, be fortified against potential threats. Furthermore, it classified GPS as a vital component of critical infrastructure.

It is imperative that we swiftly create and implement systems capable of promptly identifying, neutralizing, and disabling jammers. Furthermore, there is a necessity for legislation that empowers the arrest and prosecution of deliberate offenders.

A report released this month by the Royal Academy of Engineering in the United Kingdom arrived at comparable conclusions.

The statement indicates that global navigation satellite services (GNSS) have become remarkably convenient and widespread for various applications, leading users to often overlook their significance. It further notes that while the disruption of these services in a specific application may result in only a localized inconvenience, a broader failure affecting multiple systems could lead to more severe repercussions.

The use of GPS jammers is prohibited in the United States and is heavily regulated across many European nations. Nevertheless, the legal status in certain other countries remains ambiguous.

Two Chinese men engaged in the use of remote-controlled signal jammers to facilitate cunning thefts at highway rest areas. They were caught red-handed by the police, who subsequently uncovered a method for stealing money from credit cards linked to a call center criminal network.

In Chachoengsao, law enforcement has been informed of various theft incidents at the Bang Pakong highway rest area, where vehicles have been compromised and valuables, particularly credit cards, have been stolen. This has created significant unease among travelers using this highway.

Coordinating with the Central Investigation Police, the Bang Pakong police in Chachoengsao initiated an urgent manhunt for the perpetrators. They obtained vital information from the CCTV footage recorded at each crime scene.

The suspects seem to originate from China and typically employ a similar operational method. They are part of a structured gang that exhibits a clear division of labor, particularly between Zhang, 38 years old, and Zheng, 31 years old.

On September 15, after finalizing their investigations at the crime scene, the authorities executed a coordinated arrest of two Chinese suspects at a service area on the highway in Khao Din Town, within Bang Pakong District, Chachoengsao Province.

With the criminals' approach being readily apparent, the officers distributed themselves to observe the area closely. When the two individuals arrived, the police opted to remain hidden until the suspects tried to force entry into two cars, at which point they executed the arrests.

Subsequently, the police searched their room and identified equipment utilized in the commission of the crime, which comprised a remote control signal jammers, three mobile phones, a shoulder bag, and they seized a car key, a car, along with additional evidence.

They were charged with "collaborative attempts to commit theft using a vehicle" and "entering and residing in Saudi Arabia without the necessary permissions as foreigners." Zhang denied the allegations, in contrast to Zheng, who admitted to them. They were subsequently assigned to investigators from the Crime Suppression Department.

The research indicated that the gang would remain hidden near parking spaces at highway rest areas. When they identified victims who were parked and about to disembark from their vehicles, the first group of thieves would employ signal cell phone blockers to block the remote control signal, thus preventing the vehicle from being locked.

In the next phase, a separate group of criminals would approach the victims and make calls in close proximity to distract them, ensuring that they did not notice their cars were left unlocked. Once the victims had stepped away from their vehicles, another group of criminals would take the opportunity to open the doors and steal the valuables stored inside.

In addition, investigators found that a Thai woman, subsequently identified as Ms. Ketfa Theeranat, 20, who is Zheng's girlfriend, had been in the same vehicle as the suspect prior to their arrival at the highway rest area.

A search of Ms. Ketfa Theeranat's room in her apartment in the Rama 9 District led to the discovery of ketamine by the police. Following this finding, she was arrested for "unauthorized possession of psychotropic drugs (ketamine)" and was subsequently taken to Makkasan Police Station.

In parallel, the police uncovered the techniques utilized by the suspects to withdraw money from the victims' credit cards. The card readers they employed were suspected to have ties to international stores or usage regions. This discovery aligns with the investigative insights, indicating that the criminal group may be linked to the call center gang engaged in defrauding numerous networks.

We will undertake further analysis of the case to corroborate these findings.