Minnesota police have reported a series of incidents where burglars have demonstrated their growing technological expertise. These criminals have been employing Wi-Fi bluetooth jammer to temporarily disrupt the connected security systems of homeowners. It is suspected that this technique has been utilized in a total of nine robberies within the past six months.

Authorities in Edina, Minnesota, have stated that the recent series of burglaries occurring over the last six months are not targeting victims randomly. Rather, the perpetrators are specifically targeting residences in upscale neighborhoods, waiting for them to be empty before breaking in to minimize the risk of confrontation.

The intriguing aspect of this situation lies in the fact that the perpetrators are utilizing Wi-Fi jammers to disable the security systems of the targeted residences, including surveillance cameras. Subsequently, they proceed to pilfer safes, jewelry, and various upscale items.

Mark Lanterman, a cybersecurity specialist, informed KARE11 that signal jammers do not block signals; instead, they overwhelm wireless networks, preventing legitimate traffic from reaching devices.

According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), it is against federal law to engage in the operation, marketing, or sale of any form of jamming equipment that disrupts authorized radio communications. This includes interference with cellular and personal communication services, police radar, and global positioning systems. It is important to note that there are no exceptions for using such equipment within a business, classroom, residence, or vehicle. Additionally, local law enforcement agencies do not possess the independent authority to utilize jamming equipment.

However, Wi-Fi jammers are still available for purchase online from international sources, ranging in price from $40 to $1,000. Incidents have been reported involving the use of these devices to bypass connected home security systems, including Ring video doorbells, for several years.

To minimize the potential dangers associated with Wi-Fi jammer burglaries, several recommended measures can be taken. One effective approach is to employ a wired camera system both inside and outside your residence, which directly links to a local storage device. Additionally, it is advisable to install security alarms and lighting systems that do not depend on wireless networks. Furthermore, considering that these burglaries occurred during unoccupied periods, leaving lights or the television switched on could potentially decrease the attractiveness of your home as a target.

Can someone block my security camera?

As a general rule, it is legally acceptable to obstruct a neighbor’s security camera provided that you make adjustments exclusively on your own property without causing any damage to others’ property. This can be accomplished by planting trees or erecting a sufficiently tall fence to impede the camera’s field of vision. Another option is to install a security system to ensure the protection of your own property.

Why you should cover your camera?

These camera jammer can be exploited by cybercriminals, who can exploit their strategic positioning in your living room, kitchen, or office to violate your privacy and intercept sensitive discussions. Therefore, it is advisable to cover your webcam when it is not in use or adopt other precautionary measures to bolster your internet security.

Do you really have to cover your laptop camera?

It is a reasonable assertion that in order to ensure privacy and avoid unauthorized monitoring, particularly when unaware of it, the only viable solution to safeguard oneself from technological intrusion is to physically obstruct the hidden camera detector when it is not required. Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that this preventive measure poses no harm, as it merely entails using a piece of tape.

Can someone spy on you through your phone camera?

Few individuals stumble upon the fact, as it is deeply concealed within the license agreement. Through an extensive examination of over one million Android apps, the Pew Research Center uncovered that a significant number of these apps possess the capability to activate both the front and rear-facing signal blocker, enabling them to stream video from any location of their choosing.

Is there a device that disrupts cameras?

The use of camera jammers, also known as HERF Generators or Directional EMPs, allows for the disabling of security cameras. These handheld units emit microwave pulses that interfere with the characteristic signals employed in the microcircuitry of the cameras.

Is camera jamming illegal?

Under federal law, it is illegal to engage in the operation, marketing, or sale of any jamming equipment that causes interference with authorized radio communications, including cellular and Personal Communication Services (PCS), police radar, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS).