On Friday, February 20, 2026, India’s Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) initiated a major crackdown on the illegal online sale of anti-drone systems, drone jammers, and GPS jammers.
The watchdog has issued formal notices to six e-commerce platforms and entities, directing them to immediately stop the listing and sale of these restricted wireless transmitting devices.
The “Target List” of Entities
The CCPA has sent notices to the following six companies for regulatory non-compliance:
- IndiaMART
- Everse
- Xboom
- Javiat Aerospace
- AirONE Robotics
- Maveric Drones and Technologies Pvt Ltd
Why the Crackdown?
The CCPA’s suo motu action was triggered by findings that these highly sensitive devices were being sold to the general public in a manner that was both misleading and a threat to national security.
- Misleading Advertising: The listings often failed to mention that civilian possession and use of jammers is strictly prohibited without statutory authorization. This misled consumers into believing the products were freely purchasable.
- Lack of Certification: Most listings did not provide mandatory Equipment Type Approval (ETA) or Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) certification details.
- Regulatory Violations: Drone jammers are governed under the Indian Telegraph Act (1885) and the Wireless Telegraphy Act (1933). Under these laws, such equipment is permitted only for authorized government agencies and law enforcement.
Demands for Full Disclosure
The CCPA has directed the six platforms to furnish a comprehensive set of data within a stipulated time, including:
- Procurement Source: Documentation on how the equipment was sourced or imported, including import licenses and invoices.
- Sales Records: Complete data on the number of units sold in the last two years, along with the identities of the purchasers.
- Regulatory Clearances: Copies of any authorizations obtained from the DoT, WPC, MHA, or the Cabinet Secretariat.
- Third-Party Data: A list of third-party sellers on their platforms who have listed similar restricted equipment.
The National Security Angle
Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare noted that the open availability of jamming equipment poses a “significant concern,” as these devices can disrupt aviation systems, communication networks, and critical infrastructure if they fall into unauthorized hands.
“The online availability of regulated jamming equipment without mandatory disclosures is a matter of concern. Such devices are not meant for civilian use.” — Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs.
