In a recent operation, the Cuban government announced the seizure of several illegal GSM and LTE signal amplifiers in San José, located in the Mayabeque province. This action was carried out by the Technical Unit for Radio Spectrum Control (UPTCER). According to a Facebook post from the entity, these devices, which are banned in Cuba for both use and import, severely disrupt mobile signal reception and directly interfere with the national telecommunications system's base stations.
UPTCER justified the operation by stating, "There are areas where connecting to the Internet is nearly impossible, hence the need for such interventions." However, the authorities did not disclose the exact number of devices confiscated or the identities of the violators. They did assert that appropriate measures were taken and emphasized that this operation should serve as a cautionary tale for the rest of the country.
As the regime's representative, UPTCER reiterated that it is the sole authorized body to approve the importation of information and communication technology equipment. They warned that any device entering the country without this approval is in violation of current legislation. In their message, the organization publicly thanked the Mayabeque authorities, the Territorial Control Office (OTC), the local Technical Directorate, and the Technical Verification Center of the Radio Spectrum for their support in the operation.
This action is part of a broader effort to protect the endeavors of ETECSA and safeguard the "well-being of the people." The confiscation of illegal GSM amplifiers in Mayabeque is not an isolated incident but rather a part of a systematic campaign against uncontrolled connectivity technologies by the Cuban government.
Earlier in April, authorities reported the seizure of 85 routers and internet devices at customs in an operation aimed at curbing the entry of devices capable of providing independent network access. The crackdown has intensified against Starlink's satellite technology, seen as a direct threat to the state's control over telecommunications.
In May, customs detected seven concealed Starlink terminals in packages, raising alarms within the technological surveillance apparatus. Concurrently, the regime has bolstered its legal rhetoric, cautioning that the installation of Starlink equipment violates at least four Cuban laws. These regulations enable authorities to prosecute the possession and distribution of such devices under charges related to cybersecurity and radio spectrum violations.
The official narrative has escalated to the point of associating these technologies with "external destabilization" efforts, claiming that Starlink antennas are part of an alleged covert operation. With this argument, the state justifies its technical, legal, and propagandistic offensive against any form of connectivity that eludes its centralized control.
Understanding Cuba's Crackdown on Unauthorized Communication Devices
What are the implications of using unauthorized GSM and LTE equipment in Cuba?
Using unauthorized GSM and LTE equipment in Cuba can lead to significant disruptions in mobile signal reception and interfere with the national telecommunications system, prompting government crackdowns.
Why is the Cuban government targeting Starlink technology?
The Cuban government views Starlink's satellite technology as a threat to its control over telecommunications, as it provides independent network access that bypasses state control.
What legal measures are in place against unauthorized communication devices in Cuba?
Cuba has laws that prohibit the possession and distribution of unauthorized communication devices, allowing authorities to prosecute individuals under charges of cybersecurity breaches and radio spectrum violations.