The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has observed an increase in the number of individuals selling "jammers" - devices that can interfere with cell phone calls, text messages, Wi-Fi networks, and GPS systems - raising concerns about potential disruptions in public environments.

The small, battery-powered devices can be used to create "dead zones" within a small area, usually 30 feet or so, and have been used by movie theaters, restaurants, and schools to keep people off their cell phones. But they also cut off 911 calls, can disrupt navigation near airports, and have been used near police stations to interrupt radio communications. Officials at the FCC say theyve noticed an increasing number of wifi jammers, which are banned by federal law, coming into the country. Many cheaper versions, which sell for as little as $25, are imported from Asia, according to the agency..

The Communications Act of 1934 makes it clear that selling, advertising, utilizing, or importing jammers is illegal, as it is against the law to disrupt radio communications in public areas.

The FCC issued citations to eight people and companies for advertising jammers on Craigslist at the beginning of this week.

The Federal Communications Commission announced that jammers were advertised on the website in Orlando, Philadelphia, Austin, Mississippi, Charlotte, N.C., Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, and Corpus Christi, Texas. Authorities have indicated that they do not believe the cases are related.

Michele Ellison, the FCCs enforcement bureau chief, highlighted that the placement of a signal jamming device ad on platforms like Craigslist.org is a violation of federal law. Signal jammers are prohibited for a specific purpose.

According to the references, most sellers marketed jammers as a means to have an undisturbed nap on a bus, enforce a peaceful classroom, or maintain an annoyance-free area, all without referencing the potential for more nefarious applications of the device.

One of the citations highlights the mounting concern over the inadequate awareness of individual consumers who engage in the use of jamming devices, failing to grasp the potentially grave outcomes of their actions. These operators incorrectly assume that their illegal operation is justified based on personal convenience or should be excused.

According to the FCC, there was at least one seller who knew that jammers were illegal contraband.