FCC Tells Commercial Establishments to Stop Blocking Wi-Fi
January 28, 2015
After a complaint was filed against Marriott International last year for illegally blocking personal users’ Wi-Fi signals at its Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center property in Nashville, the Federal Communications Commission not only slapped a $600,000 fine on the company at the time, but also recently followed it up with an “Enforcement Advisory” reminding the Marriott, and any other commercial establishment, to not even think about doing it again.
The practice was in violation of Section 333 of the Communications Act.
“Consumers must get what they pay for,” said FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler. “The Communications Act prohibits anyone form willfully or maliciously interfering with authorized radio communications, including Wi-Fi.”
The advisory stated: “No hotel, convention center, or other commercial establishment or the network operator providing services at such establishments may intentionally block or disrupt personal Wi-Fi hot spots on such premises, including as part of an effort to force consumers to purchase access to the property owner’s Wi-Fi network. Such action is illegal and violations could lead to the assessment of substantial monetary penalties.”
The FCC advisory said it had found a “disturbing trend” not only with the Marriott, but also other commercial establishments that were intentionally blocking Wi-Fi signals.
“As a result, the Bureau is protecting consumers by aggressively investigating and acting against such unlawful intentional interference,” the advisory stated.
Marriott said it was blocking Wi-Fi by utilizing deauthentication protocol for security reasons, protecting its own network, as well as users’.
The FCC found, though, that the “Marriott admitted that the customers it blocked did not pose a security threat” and in a settlement, the company had to pay the $600,000 civil penalty.
Following the settlement, the FCC said it has received several complaints that other commercial Wi-Fi network operators may be disrupting the legitimate operation of personal Wi-Fi hot spots.
“The Bureau is investigating such complaints and will take appropriate action against violators,” the advisory stated.
In addition, the advisory said that Federal law prohibits the operation, marketing, or sale of any type of jamming equipment, including devices that interfere with Wi-Fi, cellular or public safety communications.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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