Cell Phone Jamming : Forced Etiquette or Criminal?

Most of us have been there. We're either in a library, a doctor's office, or on a bus. Then the inevitable happens. That dreaded cell phone ring tone blasts the previously quiet atmosphere. The person answers the phone and talks so loudly one wonders why that person is even using a cell phone.

People are fighting back with a device called a cell phone jammer. The jammer is about the size of a pack of cigarettes and with the push of a button the call ends. Peace at last!

There's one problem which comes along with the blessing of silence. Jamming is illegal and that moment of bliss can cost you up to $11,000. That's just the first time you get caught.

Verizon Wireless and the FCC (in the U.S.) are fighting back. They are now placing agents with jamming detectors in areas where jamming has been reported. Why are they so concerned? For one, when a jammer is turned on, the intended target is not the only one jammed. Some of the more expensive jammers will jam for a hefty distance. The jammer could interfere with an emergency call from an unintential target.

The scarriest thought about the influx of jammers in the U.S. is that they could be used by criminals or even terroists to block any attempted calls for help. With the help of old military technology, companies such as Verizon could override the jamming signals. If it comes to that expect a hefty increase in your cell phone bills. A cheaper alternative would be for people to practice a little etiquette. Naw; forget it. It just will not happen in today's society.