Is the Government's New Move Effective in Curbing Illegal Signal Boosters?

Synopsis
In an effort to enhance mobile network quality, the COAI welcomes the government's new guidelines prohibiting the online sale of illegal signal boosters and jammers. This initiative aims to protect consumers and improve digital communications across India, promising a better experience for millions of users.
Key Takeaways
- COAI supports new government guidelines.
- Illegal signal boosters disrupt mobile networks.
- Guidelines prohibit online sales of such devices.
- Collaboration is crucial for compliance.
- This move aims to enhance user experience.
New Delhi, June 2 (NationPress) The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) expressed its support on Monday for the government's recent measures aimed at halting the online sales of illegal mobile signal boosters and wireless jammers.
These guidelines, released by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) on May 27, represent a significant effort to enhance network quality and safeguard consumers from the adverse effects of unauthorized radio devices.
The newly established rules, officially named 'Guidelines for the Prevention and Regulation of Illegal Listing and Sale of Radio Equipment including Walkie Talkies on E-Commerce Platforms, 2025', impose a clear prohibition on the listing and sale of mobile signal boosters and jammers on online marketplaces.
This is explicitly stated in Clause 4(i)(b), which specifically addresses these devices due to their contribution to network disruptions and rising customer complaints.
The COAI has consistently highlighted concerns regarding the unregulated sale and usage of these illegal devices. The organization points out that these signal boosters are frequently installed without authorization in residential and commercial properties, resulting in significant issues for the mobile network service provided by licensed telecom operators.
COAI Director General, Lt Gen Dr. S.P. Kochhar (retd), expressed gratitude to both the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Department of Telecommunications for their decisive action on this matter.
"Clause 4(i)(b) of the guidelines affirms our concerns and advocacy efforts. We are confident that this proactive approach will significantly enhance service quality and uphold consumer rights," he remarked.
The COAI has urged all e-commerce platforms to adhere to the new regulations fully and has called for strict enforcement to guarantee compliance.
The association also reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the government and various stakeholders to safeguard the nation's digital communications infrastructure.
This initiative is anticipated to enhance mobile network services and diminish interference caused by illegal radio devices, benefiting both telecom providers and millions of mobile users throughout India.