If you’re annoyed, like I am, by the loudmouths that are constantly talking on their cell phones in the most inappropriate places, there is a way to shut them up, a cell phone jammer. Apparently these pocket-sized wonders are quite popular. The New York Times reports, café owners, bus drivers and bunch of other people, including those who take public transportation are buying them. They cost anywhere from $50 to $1000 and can jam calls from several feet to several yards. They work by sending out a powerful radio signal that overwhelms cell phones so the signal can’t reach the cell tower. It’s simple, effective and illegal. According to the website HowStuffWorks.com, the FCC considers “jamming” property theft, because a private company has bought the rights to the radio spectrum and jamming it is just like stealing it. And if you’re caught using a jammer, you can be fined up to $11,000 for the first offense. The website also points out that jamming is a safety hazard because it blocks ALL calls within its reach. People who need help can’t call 911, kids in trouble can’t reach their parents, etc. Like with every great invention, there is a down side, in this case a dangerous side. So if you choose to jam, jam with caution!
