Media Contact: 
Cecilia Sulhoff, 202-418-0587
cecilia.sulhoff@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC ACTS TO PROMOTE PUBLIC SAFETY BY CURBING PRISON 
INMATES’ USE OF CONTRABAND WIRELESS DEVICES
  --
WASHINGTON, March 23, 2017 – Today, the FCC took important steps to help law 
enforcement combat the serious threats posed by the use of contraband wireless devices by 
inmates in prisons and jails nationwide.  
In recent years, the use of contraband wireless devices by inmates across the country has grown 
rapidly.  Inmates use these devices to commit criminal acts while inside correctional facilities, 
such as ordering hits, running drug operations, and operating phone scams.  Some correctional 
facilities have implemented radio-based technologies to detect and block the use of contraband 
wireless devices that make and receive phone calls and send and receive text messages, as well as 
block access to the Internet (including use of apps).  These technologies, called Contraband 
Interdiction Systems (CISs), use commercial spectrum and therefore require FCC authorization to 
operate.
The rules adopted today will simplify the process for CIS operators to obtain this FCC 
authorization, allowing for quicker and easier deployment of these systems in correctional 
facilities.  Specifically, today’s Order introduces a range of solutions including:
? FCC Authorization Process: The rules adopted today will streamline the process so CIS 
operators can obtain authorizations faster and with fewer filings.
? Carrier Cooperation: A CIS operator must have arrangements with every carrier providing 
service in its area in order for the system to be effective.  The rules will require wireless 
carriers to cooperate with CIS operators and correctional facilities in a timely manner.  
? FCC Ombudsperson: The Commission will designate an Ombudsperson to serve as the 
single point of contact for CIS operators and wireless carriers.
In the Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission also seeks comment on additional 
tools for combating contraband wireless devices.
Inmates’ use of contraband wireless devices is a serious threat to the safety and welfare of 
correctional facility employees, other inmates, and innocent members of the public.  The actions 
taken today continue the Commission’s efforts to spur the development of technological solutions 
to fight this problem.
Action by the Commission March 23, 2017 by Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking (FCC 17-25). Chairman Pai, Commissioner O’Rielly approving. Commissioner 
Clyburn approving in part and concurring in part.  Chairman Pai, Commissioners Clyburn and 
O’Rielly issuing separate statements.
GN Docket No. 13-111
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This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order 
constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).