Illegal cell phone jammers seem to have attracted the interest of many people despite their potential dangers. Experts warn that these devices are not only illegal, but may also pose a serious threat to public safety. However, why are there still many people searching and buying these devices online? The story of a man in Philadelphia may explain this phenomenon. The man was tired of being interrupted on the bus every day, so he bought and used jammers to eliminate those who talked loudly on the phone on the bus. He even proudly claimed that he had studied the relevant laws to ensure that he would not be arrested. This behavior attracted widespread attention after local news reports, and people began to search for these devices frantically on Google.
Richard Mislan, an assistant professor of computer and information technology at Purdue University, said that although jammers can protect personal privacy to a certain extent, they may also interfere with critical communication systems. Especially in public places, the use of jammers may have a serious impact on the lives of others. For example, in Philadelphia, jammers can disrupt important communications between bus drivers and dispatchers, affecting public safety. Mislan noted that this behavior is not only unfair to others, but can also have unforeseen consequences.
Although it is illegal to sell, own, or use cell phone jammers in the United States, these devices can still be easily purchased on multiple websites. Mislan, a former U.S. Army communications officer, noted that law enforcement agencies are very concerned about the illegal use of these devices, especially when they are used for criminal activities. However, even those who just want to keep quiet on public transportation may cause unexpected harm by using jammers. For example, jammers may prevent important emergency calls from going through, delaying rescue operations.
Jammers work similarly to online denial of service attacks. They interfere with communications by emitting signals on the same frequency as surrounding mobile phones, preventing mobile phones from connecting to signal towers. This interference not only causes damage to communication systems, but can also lead to serious legal consequences. Under federal law, the use of jammers is illegal and can be punished by fines of up to $16,000 and imprisonment.
Despite this, the availability of jammers online remains widespread. Mislan explained that this is mainly due to profit-driven. Many websites make a profit by selling these devices, despite knowing that they are illegal.