C.T.S. Technology Co Ltd, a Chinese electronic maker, will face the largest fine ever in the U.S. Federal Communications Commission's history. The company marketed nearly 300 signal jammers in the United States for more than 2 years, according to the FCC.
Why is this a problem? Well, it is illegal to advertise, sell and operate signal jammers in the United States, because these devices could block 911 calls and prevent first responders from possibly saving a life. Furthermore, signal jammers could prevent communication between law enforcement.
In addition, the FCC is saying that CTS lied to consumers by stating its signal jammers were approved by the FCC, a move that likely caused a spike in sales.
Of all the 300 jammers CTS advertised, 10 were sold to FTC employees who tested the devices to see how much of an issue they could become. It was later concluded that these signal blockers could disrupt the performance of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, satellite radio, GPS signal and cellphone signal. These jammers could even block a signal from up to half a mile away.
"Signal jammers present a direct danger to public safety, potentially blocking the communications of first responders," said Travis LeBlanc, acting chief of the commission's enforcement bureau. "Operating a jammer is also illegal, and consumers who do so face significant civil and criminal penalties."
The FCC concluded that it had to land a harsh ruling down on CTS in order to stop future sale of signal jammers in the United States. The company was given the maximum fine after a maximum penalty of $122,500 was handed down on every signal jammer CTS advertised in the country.
While this is a big blow to CTS and anyone who wants to purchase a signal jammer, it is not yet the end. CTS has the option to seek a reduction on the fine, or even for a complete cancelation. We doubt the FCC would allow a complete cancelation since the agency has been very active on stopping signal jammers in their tracks.
Earlier this year, the FCC fined a man $48,000 for driving around with a signal jammer in his car on a daily basis when on the highway. We're guessing this is how the FCC got wind of CTS Technology Co Ltd.
