FCC Plans $640,000 Fine Against AT&T For Unauthorized Wireless Operations

The Federal Communications Commission intends to fine AT&T $640,000 for allegedly operating numerous wireless stations throughout the United States without authorization over a multiyear period and failing to provide required license modification notices to the FCC.

According to the FCC, AT&T apparently operated numerous common carrier fixed point-to-point microwave stations at variance from the stations’ authorizations for periods as long as five years. The FCC takes this enforcement action as part of its duty to prevent unauthorized radio operations from interfering with authorized radio communications and to facilitate the efficient administration of the radio spectrum for the benefit of all Americans. During its investigation, the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau examined the licensing history of approximately 250 AT&T stations and determined that AT&T engaged in unauthorized operations at 26 of its stations and failed to notify the FCC regarding minor modifications of an additional eight stations within the past year.