What Is A GPS Tracking Jammer?

30 Mar 2011

GPS Tracking devices have been around for quite some time. As its use becomes more popular, we are seeing new products that are available from overseas that can prevent may gps tracking devices from working properly. These products are know as GPS jammers. The jamming devices prevent the gps tracking receiver from receiving location information from the Global Positioning System constellation.

The jamming devices are available in different shapes, size and configurations, but there is a problem, a very big problem here. Unless you have a lot of money to pay hefty fines, and like bunking with a guy named “Bubba” in your local federal prison, we strongly suggest you take heed to our advice.

The Federal Communications Commission has started an enforcement campaign against consumers, as well as websites that are peddling these materials. These devices violate the following sections of the United States Code – See 47 U.S.C. § 333 (prohibiting willful or malicious interference with the radio communications of any station licensed or authorized under the Communications Act or operated by the United States Government); 47 U.S.C. § 301 (requiring persons operating or using radio transmitters to be licensed or authorized under the Communications Act and the Commission’s rules).

Why are they banned? Because they can in many cases prevent and interfere with the 9-1-1 mobile emergency calls, a pretty serious safety issue. Moreover, they can also interfere with emergency service units like police, fire, etc.

So What Happens If You Use A GPS Jammer? The FCC Says, “Operation of a jammer in the United States is illegal and may subject you to substantial monetary penalties, seizure of the unlawful equipment, and criminal sanctions including imprisonment.”

Even worse, here’s a warning from the FCC if you are a business selling these gps jammers:

“We emphasize that it is insufficient and misleading for manufacturers and retailers to include a disclaimer on their websites or in promotional or advertising materials stating or implying the U.S. consumers bear sole responsibility for complying with the applicable legal obligations.”

There is only one exception to this law and that involves manufacturing these types of devices strictly for sale to the US Government, or for export use only.

These rules also apply to devices that block cellphone signals which seem to be popular today.

The FCC allows for anyone to file a complaint against persons using or businesses selling these device – http://esupport.fcc.gov/complaints.htm

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About George Karonis

George Karonis is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of LiveViewGPS Inc., a company he established in 2008 with the vision of making real-time GPS tracking more reliable, affordable, and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Over the past two decades, he has built a reputation as an innovator in GPS tracking, fleet management, asset monitoring, and Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC) communications. Under George's leadership, LiveViewGPS has grown into a nationally recognized provider of GPS tracking solutions, serving businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement organizations, and public works departments throughout the United States. The company's technology helps organizations improve operational efficiency, protect valuable assets, increase driver safety, and reduce operating costs through real-time location intelligence. Before founding LiveViewGPS, George developed a background in security, surveillance, and emerging location technologies. His passion for innovation and practical problem solving has driven the development of products that combine dependable hardware with easy-to-use cloud software, giving customers actionable information when it matters most. In 2018, George expanded into nationwide Push-to-Talk over Cellular communications by launching PeakPTT, providing businesses with rugged, instant communication solutions that operate over LTE and Wi-Fi networks. His focus has remained the same throughout his career: delivering dependable technology backed by exceptional customer service and long-term customer relationships. George regularly writes about GPS tracking, fleet management, asset protection, business technology, and communication systems. Through this blog, he shares industry insights, practical advice, and emerging trends to help organizations make informed decisions about tracking technology and connected operations.