New Delhi: The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued CCPA notices to e-commerce platforms for listing restricted wireless devices such as anti-drone systems, drone jammers and GPS jammers. The authority found alleged violations of consumer and telecom laws.
Officials observed that several marketplaces listed these devices without disclosing mandatory licensing requirements. They also failed to provide valid Equipment Type Approval or Wireless Planning and Coordination certification details. In addition, the listings did not clearly state that civilians cannot possess such equipment without statutory authorisation.
The six entities named in the notices include M/s Everse, IndiaMART, Xboom, Javiat Aerospace, M/s AirONE Robotics and M/s Maveric Drones & Technologies Pvt Ltd. The regulator said these listings could mislead consumers into believing the devices are freely available for purchase.
CCPA notices to e-commerce platforms seek compliance details
The authority directed the companies to submit procurement and import records, including licences and invoices. It also asked them to provide copies of approvals from the Department of Telecommunications, Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing, Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Cabinet Secretariat and the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Further, the companies must disclose how many units they sold in the past two years. They must also provide complete purchaser details. The regulator asked them to identify third-party sellers offering similar equipment and explain steps taken to remove such listings. Additionally, they must submit a full list of related wireless transmitting devices hosted on their platforms.
Drone and signal jamming equipment fall under strict control through the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1933. Import restrictions operate under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 and DGFT notifications. Authorities generally allow only government agencies and law enforcement bodies to procure such equipment with approval.
The omission of key legal disclosures may amount to misleading advertisement and unfair trade practice under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. Moreover, Rule 4 of the Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020 requires marketplaces to exercise due diligence and comply with applicable laws.
Earlier, the CCPA had advised e-commerce platforms against facilitating illegal sale of wireless jammers. With these fresh notices, the authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers and preventing unlawful online sales.
