DoT warns e-commerce firms over illegal sale of wireless jammers, network boosters – Times of India

New Delhi: Telecom Deptt has warned e-commerce platforms against selling certain telecom gear like wireless jammer and network boosters that require government permission for sale, said an official statement on Monday. DoT has raised the issue several times in the last 4-5 years and even conducted raids to check illegal sale of these devices.
“It has been said that the use of cellular signal jammers, GPS blocker or other signal jamming device Generally illegal, except as specifically permitted by the Government of India. Private sector organizations and/or private individuals cannot purchase or use jammers in India,” DoT said in a statement.
The DoT added that it is also unlawful to advertise, sell, distribute, import or otherwise market signal jamming equipment in India, except as permitted under the guidelines outlined above.
“With respect to signal booster/repeater, it is stated that it is illegal to possess, sell and/or use a mobile signal repeater/booster by any person/entity other than the licensed telecom service providers,” the statement said.
The department had also issued a notice on January 21, warning all e-commerce companies to sell or sell wireless jammers on their online platforms.
A copy of the above notice was also circulated to the Ministry of Commerce, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Customs for appropriate action.
Telecom industry body Cellular Operators of India said citizens are unaware that buying, selling, installing and possessing a mobile signal booster (MSB) is an illegal and punishable offense under the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933 and the India Telegraph Act, 1885.
“Its unauthorized use adversely interferes with telecom services and we are glad that the Government of India has recognized its importance in providing a flawless network and telecom experience to citizens across the country.
COAI Director General SP Kochhar said, “This advisory will help in spreading awareness and make citizens aware of the debilitating effects of repeaters on the overall network.”