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0 pointswolfgke9y ago0 comments

> Using a cellphone is voluntarily, too.

Indeed. But the difference is that it is legal (and possible) to program a very open (and privacy-conscious) messaging service.

On the other hand, it is completely illegal (in the US by FCC ruling) to develop a completely free and open baseband processor and use it. It is also nearly impossible to set up an alternative cellphone network since you need licenses for using the parts of the spectrum.

This is where the difference is.

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3 comments · 1 top-level

ajuc9y ago· 2 in thread

You can develop a phone using open band (CB radio for example).

wolfgkeOP9y ago

At least in Germany, where I live, there are similar regulations concerning permission to build your own radio device for CB band as for baseband processors (i.e. if you want to legally use your self-built device there are strong restrictions (CE certifications are nearly unaffordable for makers).

Also in CB bands you are not allowed to encrypt the sent data. Thus not an option for people caring about privacy.

moftz9y ago

In the US, for pretty much all open frequencies that require either no license, a de facto license (owning a device gives you a license, CB), or a certification test based license do not allow any sort of scrambling or encryption unless the gov't is able to decode what you are sending. A third party successfully listening in defeats the entire purpose of obscuring what you are saying.

But, if you can afford an expensive license from the FCC for operating on other (commercial) bands, you can secure your communications from prying eyes.

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