Minnesota burglars are using WiFi jammers to disable home security systems

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

In Edina, Minnesota, the police have stated that the recent burglaries within the last six months are not targeting victims randomly. Instead, the criminals are specifically choosing affluent neighborhoods and waiting for homes to be empty before breaking in to avoid confrontations.

What sets this case apart is the tactic employed by the criminals, who are using Wi-Fi jammers to disrupt the security systems of the targeted residences, notably surveillance cameras. Following this, they make away with safes, jewelry, and other high-value items.

KARE11 was informed by cyber security expert Mark Lanterman that signal jammersdo not block signals; rather, they overload wireless networks, causing legitimate traffic to be unable to reach devices.

According to federal law, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established regulations that explicitly forbid the operation, marketing, or sale of any jamming equipment capable of interfering with authorized radio communications. This prohibition extends to various communication services, including cellular networks, personal communication services, police radar, and global positioning systems. It is important to note that there are no exceptions for using such equipment within business premises, classrooms, residences, or vehicles. Furthermore,

However, Wi-Fi jammers are still obtainable for purchase online from sources outside the United States, with prices ranging from $40 to $1,000. Instances have been reported where these gadgets were used to circumvent connected home security systems, like Ring video doorbells, for a few years now.

To minimize the risks associated with Wi-Fi jammer burglaries, it is advisable to consider various preventive measures. One effective strategy involves implementing a hardwired camera system both inside and outside your residence, which directly connects to a local storage device. Additionally, installing security alarms and lighting systems that do not rely on wireless networks is highly recommended. Moreover, since these burglaries often occur when houses are unoccupied, leaving lights or the television switched on can potentially deter potential intruders from targeting your home.