Who should control the off switch for mobile phone networks?

The FCC is asking for comment on whether authorities should have the right to interrupt wireless phone service in the interest of public safety. Although the FCC notes that 70% of 911 calls now come from mobile phones, it also raises law enforcement concerns that mobile phones can be used for more nefarious purposes like triggering an explosion, or organizing the "activities of a violent flash mob."

Last summer, the issue of interrupting cell networks became part of national debate when Bay Area Rapid Transit temporarily shut down wireless service at select BART stations. BART authorities reasoned that organizers were planning to coordinate a protest during rush hour that could potentially lead to unsafe conditions for commuters. However, a public backlash against BART had civil liberties advocates crying censorship and claiming that the transportation agency had violated users' First Amendment rights.

As of yesterday, the FCC says it wants to hear more detail on the pros and cons of allowing organizations to interrupt mobile phone service. Here are a few of the questions the FCC is posing:

• What are examples of previous intentional interruptions of wireless service for public safety reasons, and what policies or rationales have public agencies developed that support or provide guidance on such interruptions?
• Under what circumstances, if any, is it appropriate for a public agency to interrupt wireless service? How effective is an interruption likely to be in achieving the purpose of the interruption?
• What are the risks of an interruption of wireless service?
• Which public institutions, agencies, or officials have or should have the authority to request an of interruption wireless service?
• What are the laws or regulations that affect the legality of an interruption, and what are the circumstances that are likely to render an interruption permissible or impermissible?

This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com