The use of cell phone jammer proposed by Lithgow Correctional Center has entered a new phase in which the communications authority Telecos is testing whether a full test should take place. In June last year, the Newsk Corrective Action Department sought an attempt at technology in an effort to stamp out illegal phone use by prisoners.
The attempt at the high security facility requires an exception to the ban on interference regulations issued by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). If the attempt was successful, it could allow jamming technology to be fully used in prison.
It could also provide valuable data for considering future use in other locations, the regulator said.
But ACMA said it was concerned about the effects of “continuous and continuous use of jammers at certain locations”.
The regulator said that a technical framework and a management framework should be put in place to reduce the potential for harmful interference to radio communications (including cellular networks) outside the experimental facility.
“This requires a significant connection with the telecommunications industry and especially with mobile phones,” said ACMA in a discussion paper.
“The use of jamming cell phones in prisons is a complex technical challenge.
“Even if the use of equipment is limited to high-security facilities, these facilities can be located in locations where the radio frequency spectrum is used, legitimate communication to nearby residential areas or public areas such as roads.
“Electromagnetic emissions (EME) standards must also be considered to ensure that continued operation of the devices does not have a negative impact on the health of personnel and passengers.”
The last time the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) considered using jammers in prisons was in 2003.
The supervisory authority has previously granted the prohibition regulations for the purpose of noise testing an exception.
Telstra was allowed to test the devices in a shielded room in 2006 on behalf of the Australian Federal Police.
This test should help determine the feasibility of using cell phone jammers in prisons, ACMA said.