This question is concerning law and bootlegging satellite signal.
I can understand if someone gets fined for stealing Cable TV because in order to do so they would have to physically take a wire that they do not own, and re-direct it on to their property. However, satellites are very different.
Satellite signals are being blasted down on to our houses whether we like it or not. How can we call it “stealing” a satellite signal if all we’re doing is collecting a signal that is already being blasted at our houses?
So can anyone actually get charged for stealing a satellite signal?
Perdendosi
That’s an interesting point, but I don’t think decrypting cell signals are is the same as Sat waves.
When you listen in on other peoples conversation you are actually “invading” their privacy, and taking something “away” from them. Also the process of decrypting is actually pretty complicated and involves “stalking” the target and being near them when they are making a call to pick up the signal. This whole process is usually don’t in public areas, and off of your personal property.
Sat signals are different because they are actually meant people to receive, and you are decoding it at your home and on your property.
That’s really the key point; can you call it theft if it’s already being blasted at you without your authorization.
2 Responses to “Can taking a bootleg satellite signal really be considered illegal?”
If your smart enough to pluck it out of the air without being caught, go for it, I see no harm in taking raido waves that are already hitting your house, and using them.
But the signal is encoded for its intended recipient only. When you buy a satellite box that descrambles the signal, you’re cracking a security measure intended to keep you from the code.
that’s like saying “can decoding cell phone encryption algorithms to eavesdrop on other peoples’ calls be a violation of privacy? Cell phone signals fly through the sky, why can’t I intercept them, even if I’m not a party to the conversation?”
Now, of course, if the satellite signal is not restricted, but can be picked up with any person with a dish, there is a LITTLE different story there. Although if you’re not authorized, it’s still not technically your property.