January 2025
Jammers are prohibited in Canada and subject to offences and penalties under sections 4, 9, 10, and 15.1 of the Radiocommunication Act (the Act).
What is a jammer?
A radiocommunication jammer is any device or combination of devices that transmits, emits, or radiates electromagnetic energy and can interfere with, disrupt, or block radiocommunication signals and services. These devices are often marketed under names such as mobile phone jammers, signal silencers or blockers.
The legal definition of a jammer can be found in section 2 of the Act.
Radiofrequency Enabled Counter-Drones or Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems (CUAS)
All counter-drones that emit electromagnetic energy (i.e., radiofrequency signals) and are capable of interfering or obstructing radiocommunications are considered jammers. For example, a device designed to disrupt the signal between a drone, its controller or operator is considered a jammer. Similarly, a device that sends alternate signals (i.e., spoofing) to a drone or a drone controller from that intended by the operator is also a jammer.
Why are jammers prohibited in Canada?
Jammers are often marketed as privacy protection devices, but their use can have serious consequences, including impacts on safety of life, property, or national security. By disrupting wireless networks and communication systems (e.g., mobile and Wi-Fi networks, GPS signals), jammers can prevent people from being able to contact 9-1-1 emergency services during times of crisis. These devices can also interfere with radiocommunication systems that ensure the safe navigation of airplanes, ships, and trains, or cause harmful interference to other safety-related radio systems.
Due to these risks, subsection 4(4) of the Act prohibits the installation, use, possession, manufacture, importation, distribution, lease, offer for sale, or the sale of jammers in Canada. Additionally, subsection 9(1)(b) of the Act prohibits the interference with or obstruction of any radiocommunication without Ministerial Exemption.
Are there any exceptions?
The Minister has the power under subsection 14(1) of the Act to exempt any person, class of persons or entity from the application of subsection 4(4) and paragraph 9(1)(b) of the Act. These exemptions are granted via Ministerial Order and are subject to any terms and conditions that the Minister may specify. However, only select persons or entities may qualify for such exemptions, and eligibility is limited to specific purposes outlined in subsection 14(1) of the act.
Entities may submit a request to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry (the Minister) for an exemption from the prohibitions in the Act. Each request is reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the applicant has the technical capability and legitimate rationale for using jamming devices, such as ensuring national security and public safety.
Persons or entities can only qualify for an exemption for purposes outlined in subsection 14(1) of the Act. These exemptions are made by Ministerial Order and are subject to any terms and conditions that the Minister may specify. In certain exemption orders, entities who are responding to a solicitation of bids in relation to the provision of jammers to an exempted entity, or have entered into a contract with the exempted entity for the provision of jammers or jammer services (e.g., performing any part of the work under that contract or any related subcontract) are also exempt from the application of subsection 4(4) and paragraph 9(1)(b) of the Act. However, this does not amount to a blanket exemption. These entities (i.e., suppliers) are only exempt from the jammer prohibitions in relation to their contractual obligations with the exempted entity and are subject to restrictions and requirements under the applicable exemption order. For example, a supplier's use of a jammer must be supervised by the exempted entity.
For inquiries regarding exemptions to the jammer prohibitions please send an email to: spectrumregulatory-reglementationduspectre@ised-isde.gc.ca
What are the consequences of breaking the rules around jammers?
Interference caused by jammers is taken seriously in Canada. Individuals, businesses, and other entities engaged in illegal jammer activities may face significant consequences, including administrative monetary penalties, seizure of unlawful devices, and other enforcement measures.
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) can impose administrative monetary penalties for individuals up to a maximum of $25,000 for a first violation and $50,000 for subsequent violations, and for businesses and other entities, up to a maximum of $10 million for a first violation and $15 million for subsequent violations.
More information is available on ISED's Spectrum Compliance and Enforcement web page.
What do I do if I believe my communications are being jammed?
Before contacting ISED, please ensure you troubleshoot your connectivity issue by following the recommendations of your equipment's manufacturer and/or communications service provider.
If you confirm that your equipment or service provider is not the cause of the interference and you suspect that someone is using a jammer, contact your nearest ISED district office.