The FCC will soon allow state prisons to block the signals of contraband cellphones. Tennessee Department of Correction Commissioner Frank Strada called the blocking “a gamechanger in corrections.”
Contraband cellphones provide inmates with a connection to the outside world.
The FCC has taken the first step to allow state prisons to jam cellphone signals, which is currently banned under the Communications Act of 1934.
It will be able to pinpoint the area of the cellphone and render that area inoperable, so it won’t affect the outside areas or communities.
Some are concerned worry jamming could potentially block 911 calls made from outside of prisons, and interfere with prison surveillance and lock systems, making it easier for inmates to escape.
