Listen to this content
On Feb. 19, the Finnish government submitted a legislative proposal to parliament to criminalize possession and import of radio-frequency jammers and spoofers, including those blocking GNSS signals
According to Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the amendments would be made to the Act on Electronic Communications Services. The government proposes to amend the provisions on equipment that jam or spoof radio communications.
Unauthorized use of jammers is already banned. The government proposes to criminalize unauthorized possession of jammers, enabling confiscation and improving the authorities’ ability to intervene in the unauthorized possession and import of such devices. The proposal would introduce a distinct definition for jammers, separate from radio equipment, allowing for stricter regulation.
The amendment would set clearer conditions for the use and possession of jammers for the authorities and other authorized parties. The possession and use of jammers for research and product development would be permitted under a license if certain conditions are met.
The proposal would also introduce exceptions for NATO and its member states regarding the right of the Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) to check radio equipment or jammers and confiscate them for inspection.
Parliament will first hold a debate on the government proposal in a plenary session. The proposal will then proceed to a committee reading. Following the committee report, the debate will continue in a plenary session.
The Act is scheduled to enter into force on July 1.
