Anatel expands use of cell phone, internet and drone blockers

So far used only in penitentiaries, cell phone, internet, drone and GPS receiver signal jammers could be activated in more places. The National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) approved today (2) a resolution that expands the possibilities of using the equipment. According to the new norm, the blockers may also be installed in ports and airports, public security areas, military areas and places of temporary interest for public security, national defense and foreign delegations. Anatel also increased the number of bodies that can request the installation of blockers. Until now, only the Ministry of Justice could make the requests. Under the new rules, the following bodies may also require the installation of blockers: Presidency of the Republic; Institutional Security Office (GSI); Ministries of Defense, Justice and Foreign Affairs; Armed forces; Brazilian Intelligence Agency; and public security and penitentiary administration bodies. Each agency must apply at least 15 days in advance. The exceptions are the Presidency of the Republic, the GSI, the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces, which may require the urgent installation of blockers. The new rules depend on publication in the Official Gazette of the Union to come into effect. They will replace the current resolution, edited in 2002. Anatel maintained the prohibition for individuals and companies (even public or mixed economy) to use blockers. The unauthorized installation of such equipment constitutes a crime of clandestine telecommunications activity, with a penalty of two to four years in prison.

Agência Brasil