Question T1A11
From subelement T1 - T1A
When is willful interference to other amateur radio stations permitted?
Why is this correct?
Willful interference to other amateur radio stations is never permitted under FCC rules. The regulations explicitly state this prohibition applies 'at no time.' Even if another station appears to be breaking rules, you cannot deliberately interfere with their transmission. The proper response to rule violations is to document the incident and report it through official FCC channels, not to take enforcement into your own hands through intentional interference.
Memory tip
Remember the principle: amateur radio operators are self-policing through cooperation, not vigilante enforcement. When you encounter problems, the pattern is always 'document and report' rather than 'interfere and retaliate.' This maintains the collaborative spirit essential to amateur radio.
Learn more
Willful interference violates Part 97's fundamental principle that amateur radio exists for voluntary communication and experimentation. Even in frequency conflicts between legitimate stations, the rule is negotiation between equal parties, not interference. The FCC reserves enforcement authority to itself - amateur operators never have the right to jam, block, or deliberately interfere with any transmission, regardless of perceived rule violations by others.
Think about it
Why do you think the FCC prohibits amateurs from enforcing rules through interference, even against stations that appear to be breaking regulations?