Government Cracks Down on Online Sale of Anti-Drone and GPS Jammer Devices

New Delhi: The Indian government has taken a strict stance against the online sale of anti-drone systems, drone jammers, and GPS jammer devices. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued notices to six e-commerce platforms and companies for allegedly providing misleading information and failing to comply with regulations.

Companies Asked for Detailed Information

The CCPA has asked platforms including Everse, Indiamart, Xboom, Javiat Aerospace, AirONE Robotics, and Maveric Drones & Technologies Pvt Ltd to provide detailed information about the sourcing and sale of these devices. The companies must submit import licenses, purchase receipts, and other necessary documents, along with the complete details of buyers who purchased such equipment.

Allegations Against the Companies

Investigations revealed that these companies were selling the devices online without clarifying that a special license is required to purchase or operate them. They also failed to provide information about Equipment Type Approval (ETA) or Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) certification. By not highlighting that these devices cannot legally be purchased or used by ordinary citizens, the CCPA said that consumers were being misled into thinking such products are freely available.

CCPA Directives

The CCPA has instructed the companies to disclose:

• The source of purchase or import of these devices.
• Copies of import licenses, invoices, and all relevant approvals from government authorities including WPC, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Cabinet Secretariat, and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• Legal basis for selling these restricted devices commercially.
• Sales data over the past two years and details of all buyers.
• Whether any third parties are selling such devices on their platforms.
• Steps taken to prevent future unauthorized sales.
• A complete list of all radio frequency or wireless transmitting devices being sold on their platforms.

Regulatory Framework

Anti-drone and signal-jamming equipment are regulated under the Indian Telegraph Act and Wireless Telegraphy Act, requiring special licenses from DoT and the WPC Wing. Import of such restricted equipment is governed by the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992, and DGFT notifications. Generally, only government agencies and law enforcement organizations are permitted to use these devices with special approvals.

Aim of the CCPA Action

This action by the CCPA is aimed at bringing transparency to online sales and ensuring that consumers are not misled into purchasing illegal or restricted devices. By enforcing strict compliance, the authority hopes to curb unauthorized online sales and maintain legal standards in the rapidly growing market of drone and wireless technology.