The Federal Communications Commission is investigating Amazon for possibly breaking the rules. The FCC is a government agency that watches over technology companies. They are looking into whether Amazon was selling illegal devices called signal jammers.
What Are Signal Jammers?
Signal jammers are special devices that block wireless signals like cell phones, WiFi, and GPS from working properly. It is totally against the law for regular people to use, sell or even advertise these jammers in the United States. Only certain approved government agents can use them.
Other Stores Might Be in Trouble Too
The FCC made an official statement saying they are not just investigating Amazon, but also other stores that may have sold these illegal signal jammers. However, they did not say which other stores are being looked at.
Jammers Can Disrupt Important Communications
The reason signal jammers are banned is because they can be very dangerous if misused. They can block critical communication signals used by emergency workers, airplanes, ships and more. This can put people’s safety at risk.
Amazon Hasn’t Responded Yet
News reports earlier showed that some illegal signal jammers seemed to be available to buy on Amazon’s website. But so far, Amazon has not publicly commented on the FCC’s investigation into their potential violation of the rules.
Companies Face Big Fines If Guilty
If Amazon or any other stores are found guilty of improperly selling these banned devices, they could face huge fines from the FCC. Last year, a man in Florida had to pay $179,000 just for operating a jammer in his neighborhood that disrupted wireless signals. The FCC does not mess around with this kind of violation.