Wireless Telephone Protection Act

Wireless Telephone Protection Act - Amends the Federal criminal code to penalize those who use, produce, traffic in, have control or custody of, or possess hardware or software knowing that it has been configured for altering or modifying a telecommunications instrument so that such instrument may be used to obtain unauthorized access to telecommunications services (but permits an officer, employee, or agent of, or a person under contract with, an entity that owns communications transmission facilities, is responsible for the operation and maintenance of those facilities, and holds an operating license issued by the Federal Communications Commission under authority of the Communications Act of 1934, for the purpose of protecting the property or legal rights of that carrier to use, produce, have custody or control of, or possess such hardware or software). Provides increased penalties for a second or recurrent offense for fraudulent activities involving counterfeit communications access devices. Sets penalties for attempts to engage in such activity. Defines "scanner receiver" to include a device or apparatus that can be used to intercept an electronic serial number, mobile identification number, or other identifier of any telecommunications service, equipment, or instrument (thus bringing such devices within the scope of code prohibitions against fraud and related activity in c…

Congressional Research Service · 1997-09-18