The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that it is currently investigating several online retailers, including Amazon, for potentially violating commission rules related to the sale and marketing of illegal electronic devices, according to a spokesperson for the FCC. This news comes after NBC revealed that online retailers were marketing and selling radio frequency jammers as drone deterrence or privacy tools, a clear violation of federal laws.
The devices in question, known as “jammers,” are used to disable security cameras and block Wi-Fi networks. According to police officials, these gangs are highly functional and well-trained, carrying out their crimes with precision and speed. They have been targeting multi-million dollar homes across the country, including in the Detroit area, where at least 30 to 40 homes have been hit since September.
The thieves are reportedly using jammers to overcome wireless security systems that rely on Wi-Fi for operation. They are described as non-confrontational, dressed in all black with backpacks and gloves, and their goal is to get in and out of the homes quickly. During the break-ins, they are primarily targeting cash, jewelry, and expensive handbags.
In response to the spike in these home invasions, the FCC has formed a task force, known as SEM CAB, or Southeast Michigan Collaborate Arrest Prosecute, to address the issue. The task force is made up of multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Michigan State Police, and the U.S. Secret Service, among others.
During a news conference, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard stated that these criminal operations are believed to be transnational gangs operating across the country, but have primarily targeted homes in the Oakland County area. Bouchard released a surveillance video of one of the break-ins in an effort to inform the public and raise awareness about the tactics used by these criminals.
Bouchard also revealed that these gangs are primarily made up of individuals from Latin America, with the ones operating in Southeast Michigan believed to be mostly Chilean. He stated that four individuals are currently in custody in connection with these crimes, with additional suspects being held in other parts of the country.
The sheriff urged homeowners to take precautions in order to protect their homes, with a focus on redundant security systems that do not rely solely on Wi-Fi for communication. He also encouraged individuals to contact the police if their Wi-Fi suddenly goes down, as it could indicate that the criminals are operating in their area.
The task force is continuing its investigations and working to connect these criminals with other robberies in the state. Meanwhile, Amazon has not responded to requests for comment on this matter. It is imperative that retailers abide by FCC rules and regulations and refrain from marketing and selling illegal electronic devices.
The safety and security of homes and individuals should not be compromised for profit. The FCC’s ongoing investigations serve as a warning to all retailers to comply with laws and regulations to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
