US Prisons to be Allowed to Use Mobile Signal Jamming Technology

New Regulations for Prison Administrations

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has introduced a new initiative that would legalise the use of mobile signal jamming devices in prisons and detention centres. The objective of this decision is to prevent the use of illegally smuggled mobile phones by inmates, which often facilitates contact with the outside world and the continuation of criminal activities.

The commission is scheduled to vote on the matter at an open meeting on 19 November. If the changes are approved, local and state-level correctional facilities will be permitted to adopt this technology on a voluntary basis. It is important to note that this move does not mandate the installation of jamming systems, but it provides a legal pathway for facilities to address illegal communication.

Security Risks and Regulations

For many years, the FCC was categorically opposed to the use of such devices. The primary argument was that signal jamming could interfere with emergency services, police, or ambulance crews. There was also concern that the widespread availability of the technology could lead to it falling into the wrong hands, creating new security risks.

Under the new rules, facilities wishing to use jamming systems must meet strict standards. They must demonstrate that the technology will not cause "harmful interference" outside the geographical boundaries of the facility. This means that signal jamming will be localised strictly to the prison grounds to ensure that telecommunications services for citizens living in the surrounding area are not affected.

Technological Evolution in Corrections

It is worth noting that since 2018, the US Federal Bureau of Prisons has been testing so-called "micro-jamming" methods. This technology aims to block signals within a very small radius. The new initiative will give this practice a more scalable and formal structure, providing federal facilities with a stronger legal foundation.

Although this decision represents a step forward in terms of technology, the FCC's approach to prison administrations has not always been straightforward. For instance, in July 2025, the commission postponed the setting of price caps on prison phone calls, indicating that the agency is attempting to find a balance between inmates' rights, public safety, and technological capabilities.

For countries like Georgia, where controlling mobile phones in correctional systems is also a pressing issue, this US experience is significant. If "micro-jamming" technology proves effective without compromising public safety communications, such approaches could become a global standard in prison security management.