|
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has learned
of scams that apparently target low power FM (LPFM) station applicants.
Applicants report they have received e-mails or letters
offering to “jet start” an LPFM station or telling them to buy equipment or
services that may not be useful or necessary. Perpetrators of these scams
may refer to the equipment or station as a “Part 15 device” or “Part 15
transmitter.”
Part 15 devices or transmitters are low power,
non-licensed transmitters. Examples of these types of transmitters are
cordless phones, baby monitors, garage door openers, wireless home security
systems and hundreds of other types of common electronic equipment that
utilize very little power. Operators of Part 15 devices are not required to
obtain a license from the FCC to use them.
Perpetrators of these scams advertise the Part 15
devices as a means to start an LPFM radio station. Some perpetrators have
advised potential applicants to use the perpetrator’s expertise/services
(for a fee) to prevent FCC rejection of their applications.
To Minimize the Risk of This Happening to You
Don't be fooled into buying a product or service that is
unnecessary. Buying a Part 15 device or transmitter will not automatically
allow you to start an LPFM radio station. The FCC authorizes all licenses for
LPFM radio stations. The license is free and is required before construction
or operation of the station can begin.
To start an LPFM radio station, potential applicants must
file an application when their applicable filing window is open. When new
filing window dates are announced, notices are posted on the FCC's Web page at
www.fcc.gov/lpfm.
Remember, use discretion and don't let anyone fool
or scare you into buying a product or service that may be unnecessary for the
licensing or operation of an LPFM station. Research all claims and check the
FCC's LPFM Web page if you have a question about the application itself or how
to apply for a license.
For More Information
For more information about LPFM radio stations, visit
the FCC’s Media Bureau at www.fcc.gov/lpfm.
For information about other communications issues, visit the FCC’s Consumer
& Governmental Affairs Bureau Web site at www.fcc.gov/cgb,
or contact the FCC’s Consumer Center by e-mailing
fccinfo@fcc.gov; calling 1-888-CALL-FCC
(1-888-225-5322) voice or 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) TTY; faxing
1-866-418-0232; or writing to:
Federal Communications Commission
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau
Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, D.C. 20554.
 |
Federal Communications Commission · Consumer
& Governmental Affairs Bureau · 445 12th St. S.W. ·
Washington, DC 20554 |
|
1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) ·
TTY: 1-888-TELL-FCC (1-888-835-5322) · Fax: 1-866-418-0232 · www.fcc.gov/cgb/
|
| 
Federal Communications Commission
