A signal jammer is a device designed to disrupt or block wireless communications (e.g., cell phones, WiFi, GPS) by emitting interfering signals in the same frequency range as the target device. Its core purpose is to prevent the target from receiving or transmitting signals, effectively "jamming" the connection.
Jammers work through two main mechanisms: blocking and spoofing. Blocking is the most common: the jammer emits a stronger signal in the target’s frequency band (e.g., 2.4GHz for WiFi or 800MHz for cell phones). This overpowering signal makes it impossible for the target device to distinguish the original signal from the interference. Spoofing, meanwhile, involves sending fake signals to deceive the target—for example, a GPS jammer might transmit false location data to a vehicle’s navigation system.
There are several types of jammers, each targeting specific technologies:
· Cell phone jammers: Block 2G/3G/4G/5G signals, preventing calls, texts, or data.
· WiFi jammers: Disrupt 2.4GHz/5GHz WiFi networks, slowing or stopping internet access.
· GPS jammers: Interfere with satellite signals, used to hide a vehicle’s location.
It’s critical to note that using jammers is illegal in most countries without authorization. They can disrupt emergency communications (e.g., 911 calls) and violate public network rights. Legal uses are limited to secure environments like prisons, military bases, or exam halls.
In short, jammers work by overwhelming or deceiving target devices—but their use is heavily regulated to protect public safety.