FCC Enforcement Advisory Warning that Wi-Fi Blocking is Prohibited

Willful or malicious interference with Wi-Fi hot spots is illegal. Wi-Fi blocking violates Section 333 of the Communications Act.

The Federal Communications Commission Enforcement Bureau has seen a disturbing trend in which hotels and other commercial establishments block wireless consumers from using their own personal Wi-Fi hot spots on the commercial establishment’s premises. As a result, the Bureau is protecting consumers by aggressively investigating and acting against such unlawful intentional interference.

If you have reason to believe your personal Wi-Fi hot spot has been blocked, you can file a complaint with the FCC. To do so, you can visit www.fcc.gov/complaints or call 1-888-CALL-FCC. If you contact the FCC, you are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible regarding the potential Wi-Fi blocking, including the date, time, location, and possible source.