How Does The FCC Know If You Have A License Or What Kind Of Radio You Are Using On GMRS or Ham?

[@falcorthewonderdog2758]

Your favorite radio the UV5R transmits a digital id that can be read during transmission. It's called the ANI-ID. You can look it up in the menu on your favorite radio. Gmrs radios have rhe same function to allow a fingerprint id directly to your radio. If the fcc wanted to know what radio youre using they would use this data. The fact is its not likely the fcc would actually do this unless there were larger illegal issues. But it can be done.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

The ANI is only transmitted if you go out of your way to enable the ANI to be transmitted in the menu options and it is not enabled by default. The ANI, when enabled, is a loud DTMF tone that everybody can hear, it is not unique, and anyone can make the ID-number whatever they want and can change it any time, IF they bother to enable it. But yah, other than that, you should be careful.

[@gabrielsierra6890]

You have to program the ID and enable it. It goes out as a train of dtmf tones. It comes disabled as default

[@joeblough4605]

I'm cool with all that stuff Mr.Falcor The Wonder Dog. But what I'm really worried about is the FCCs knowing about all the masturbation, and if they'll actually come over to check it out. Question: just how many times have they been to your place? Bet you make coffee & stuff for them by now. You should probably draw the line at picking up their dry cleaning, nuff said.

[@Crushbandicoot-wv8xb]

@@joeblough4605hahahaha

[@jeremiemorse8642]

Hey here is some friendly advice. You are obviously wrong just take it down. It's better to admit you were not correct .

[@archer721]

As retired U.S.Army signal intelligence... I approve this message and have to add... everyone should purchase at a minimum two radios and 2 battery packs per radio to have on hand just in case of an emergency of some sort... and remember, no one but Karen care if you have a license (they are not required in an emergency or disaster anyway) get a Bofeng - cheap, lots of accessories and programmability! 😁👍 have fun and don't be an ass... leave that to the "professionals" 😎

[@archer721]

@@ditch9802 - ultimately it’s your choice for your needs… for my family we have 40 - Baofeng UV-5R’s with the larger battery that has USB recharge capability and various antennas for different applications. There are a TON of accessories available allowing these radios to adapt to almost any role. They can be VERY SIMPLY programmed with a computer (or via keyboard, very slow process) and after you make a profile it can be downloaded to each radio in seconds and easily tailored to your needs in your area. - do a little research on them and don’t be intimidated, once you figure out how actually simple they are you will completely understand why so many people have them. - there are many accessories available and I have pretty much acquired everything 😁- Multiple types of all categories of Headsets, hand mics, remote speakers, earbuds, antennas w/remote mounts and cables, extended battery packs with different charging options… truly never ending lis of upgrades… So… simple, inexpensive,upgradable and widely available.

[@archer721]

In addition to my previous reply- they have a great range on their own without having to integrate into a repeater system (which could be an option in your area) with 2 radios equipped with extended antennas from hilltop to hill top we have been able to talk beyond 20 miles. It is possible to configure your own radios into a retransmission network… hop I didn’t overload you, good luck!

[@darylarmentrout252]

@ditch9802 get that six pack and give the extras to your family and neighbors

[@MrBadjohn69]

Why?? Do you live in the middle of nowhere?

[@coolelectronics1759]

@Emmanuel Goldstein well it is ham, after all

[@davidmehl5922]

Thanks! Not just this video, all of them. You are a refreshing educator and roadblock remover.

[@applejacks971]

I’ve been a ham for 64 years and I can tell you, the FFC DOES know if you’re using a 'BooFwang' (seriously?) on GMRS freq’s and they use a couple different techniques… One way is using the ‘Electronic Radio Signature’. Pending where your radio was manufactured, it will give off a unique signature indicating the 'country of origin'. Example, BooFwang type radio signatures are signed in Chinese and appear as little houses, pound signs, and chop sticks on the FCC’s monitor device. Japanese radio’s such as Yaesu are more polite and subtle while having to be decrypted from right to left instead of left to right. US radio’s have a random unreadable signature that generally end in LGB. If the FCC is using a monitoring device made in Mexico, you can prolly beat the charge in court due to the Spanish to Asian software language barrier, keep that in mind. Chinese radio’s will also embed the signature in the ‘Roger Beep’ as way to hide in plain sight, kinda like a personal ‘numbers station’ for everyone. They are pretty sneaky like that. Think of it as an audible electronic micro dot. If you have the Roger Beep off, this irritates the FCC as they then have to look up the serial number of your radio. This is a bit more complex and tasks other agencies but they will go the extra mile, for the safety of airplanes and bunny rabbits. The FCC will tap in to the IRS (Intelligence Radio Service) database to see all your transactions under $600 (remember that?) to itemize any Amazon purchase of $22.99 with free shipping. Most people think the government wants to hire 100k Internal Revenue Service agents, but it’s really a front for the Intelligence Radio Service agency. Anyhoo, once they get your purchase info, its only a simple click to tap in to Elon Musks Star Link system to hack the Chinese database of all BooFwangs made and imported to the US. This might be why the government is against Elon buying Twitter, as everyone knows Twitter is where all the cowboy's and renegade BooFwang users hang out to do their lawless back alley GMRS and spurious frequency transmitting. It’s a travesty actually, but I digress. Its been well documented that BooFwang is a gateway radio to Wouxun (O-shun) and TYT. Yaesu is for the real hard users. The first step is admitting you have a problem, better known as GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome). With Elon’s Star Link hovering over Ukraine on a moonless night, it adds to the challenge of the IRS bouncing their signals off satellites and the 3rd moon of Saturn to ping the BooFwang plant in China. Maybe its another reason they are bent out of shape about global warming...it interferes with cloud cover, the Ionosphere, 5 watt line of sight transmissions, and the stock price of Ray Ban. So when you hear the choppers over head at 4am, see the swat boats behind your house even though you don’t live on a lake, remember, you’ve been warned. Also, when you see a van that say’s ‘FREE BooFwangs’ on the side, it’s a trap! And for the love of Xenu, please let everyone realize this was a 9 (not 10), paragraph satire.

[@andrewyoung-n8ary]

Oh lort. You got me for a minute.

[@jasoncarter2888]

bravo sir bravo

[@ephjaymusic]

Bravo!!!!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@applejacks971]

@Steve Brosig I can't believe you wasted all that reading to find out I said nothing...and then comment on it. You're welcome.

[@W5NEH]

You hit the nail on the head, sir. #MYGA

[@bendeleted9155]

Sometimes, I don't announce my call sign so the FCC can't tell who isn't announcing my call sign.

[@jbknowles1812]

Then some mode of triangulation would be used I reckon. Although someone not knowing this SEC probably would not worry about anyway. It took me away from my making a comment on the gentleman's KZbin comments section.

[@pearfilms]

Does it hurt to dig your tongue so firmly in your cheek? That's hilarious

[@georgewatson6622]

@@ke8mattj the fcc dose not care is right.dont have the man power either it,s a joke, like the goverment.

[@Calebh40]

Big brain time...well done sir.

[@FluidITGuy]

How would they know if I was announcing someone else's call sign?

[@spilledmilk9000]

I had a situation where my employer was being actively jammed by a disgruntled contractor. My employer contacted the FCC and FBI reading off various penal codes and in the end the agencies hung up on him because they didn't care. Do whatever you want so long as you don't interfere with public safety and you'll likely be fine.

[@mitchellgaston2043]

Just ordered my first radio and I found this guy in my search to understand what I’m getting into and I must say that this man has a WONDERFUL voice for radio and is tremendously based

[@thegreyfuzz]

Imagine the feds being so concerned about someone operating on a given frequency, not because they were causing malicious interference but for using a non-type accepted radio for that range per some Karen. I got my novice ticket in the late 80's and extra ~5 years later, amateur radio used to be 99.99999% self policing, not in an authoritarian way but in an educational way. Guess times have really changed.

[@coolelectronics1759]

half the time its the same radio just with a different plastic shell or just marked and programmed differently often with a sucky antenna in frs when u think about it it isnt doing the earth too well, more resources, more expense, its stupid for those who know wth they are doing with his/her radio all u need is one. maybe two if cb is your thing

[@mauer62]

They don't know and they don't care. Too many resources needed to pay attention to all the radio bands.

[@TimSmith-ec2rn]

You Sir are not a gov bootlicker and I love that about you. Keep doing what you are doing for as long as you can.

[@KT4RAM]

I respect your no bs shooting of facts straight from the hip. It's fact based no additional pork included information and if you are not 100% certain on something you say so. That is an asset that I find is becoming extinct in today's world. There will always be someone that just starts crap because of their keyboard warrior medal they won in a video game match that gives them a false sense of accomplishment and entitlement. Thanks for sharing your videos where you get the the actual point(s) of the title instead of dragging on like some others do. I appreciate ya so keep them coming my friend. Remember that the way to anger a conservative patriot is to lie to him/her. The way to anger a liberal is to tell him/her the truth. HOOAH!

[@abysspegasusgaming]

The FCC is about as useful as any other branch of government, they aren't. They are compared to that 3rd grade teacher only stepping in when the bullied kid cries after a few hours, only to slap the bullies hand and tell them to stop until tomorrow.

[@timgage3288]

Awesome info tyty! Would pay good money to see radio karens and my socal HOA Karens in a speak to your manager or the FCC shoutdown. 🤣

[@saintnik214]

FNG here but I like this guy. I have already found my circle among HAM nerds!!

[@paulseebach5978]

So basically, you're telling me I recently paid $70 for $35 license that I don't need. Boy do I feel stupid.

[@junkman2758]

Yep and in a few years you won’t even need a license just like cb

[@brandonrobertson6327]

🤣The feds love your donations.....

[@patricklonski]

I literally paid the 70 3 weeks before they lowered it to 35. My GMRS radios were for SHTF situations only so the reality is I didn't need to spend the money

[@4000marcdman]

people may not talk with you if you dont have a license. Not very fun having a one way conversation.

[@4000marcdman]

@@patricklonski You are correct Sir. But its nice to be able to play with them since you already have them.

[@johnsmith8981]

As a wise man once said "the FCC wont let me be, or let me be me."

[@Klaatu_]

I have watched a few of your video and got to say you present great information and you sense of hummer is fabulous . You deserve a standing trophy.

[@efrainavena2672]

i started listening to you by accident with out being having a radio now i want to have one. you are awesome Sr.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

I know.

[@DallasPirateMike]

You are on fire 🔥! Love your content!

[@found_at_midnight]

Exactly six months ago I transmitted on GMRS without a license talking about scary rifles and accidentally played a clip of my favorite song over the airwaves and the ATF, FTC, FBI and CIA showed up at my door within minutes and arrested me in a four-way. I am six months into a 140 year sentence for my heinous crimes. None of my appeals were heard by the highest courts.

[@smorris281]

What about the FDA, USDA, SBA and CDC. Did Faucci show up too? LOL

[@MrStaybrown]

Soo You're commenting from a prison phone?

[@utoothheartyeight]

@@MrStaybrown No, he's probably using a "cell" phone.

[@found_at_midnight]

I am operating entirely in a clandestine manner now.

[@michealjones8444]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA , and I'm the Pope

[@rustynail6819]

Radio Karen = anyone with the "Amateur Extra License" Those people are insufferable.

[@DJMICA-bz3qz]

Sad ham sad ham whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you

[@robertalonzo5725]

I crack up about all the subtle offenses he committed just to put nails on the chalkboard of the radio Karen’s

[@chellisdodge]

The Gov't is not going to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars investigating and finding someone who didn't pay for a $35 dollar 10 year license. The FCC only investigates cases of egregious use of licenses bands that are critical such as aviation frequencies and commercial radio stations. The big dollars are with cell phone companies anyways. CB/FRS/GMRS is the wild west.

[@chrono581]

That makes sense to me even if, as one of your comments said below that the FCC has monitoring vans. I highly doubt they will go after someone just having fun on the radio and not causing any problems. It's not worth their time. I'm more appropriate to use their time to go after criminals using radios to communicate under the radar as ham radios of all types, as they are much harder to track. Also, ensure business broadcasters such as ISP providers, television stations, and other businesses follow the rules. It's bad PR to have them go after every tom, deck, and Harry they come across who pushes the push-to-talk button on radios. If that were the case, Amazon would not have such a wide selection of radios for you to purchase once again, not be worth the pr problem.

[@MIKROWAVE1]

Al 100% True. It's not about capabilities or licenses or certifications or specifications; it's about harmful interference, particularly to a commercial entity. The FCC responds to complaints grudgingly and rarely.

[@escomag]

One of the best lines from 'Stripes'.

[@grendelmort8078]

I'll bet the Library Police have a larger budget that the FCC does..😂

[@zhartheProprietor]

More people really need to dive into the laws of the land. The definition of license is permission to break the law. Using these radios is protected under the first amendment. No matter how anyone wants to twist it. The FCCs rules only, apply to those who've aquired a license. Private citizens not engaged in commerce or working for the gov are outside of the FCCs jurisdiction. And always remember, the first amendment is a restriction on gov not a right. Rights predate the constitution. The constitution is a delegation of authority.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

*REMINDER* to anyone reading this comment to never take your legal advice from internet comments.

[@zhartheProprietor]

@@TheNotaRubicon yes that's right, look into these things yourself. In order to be free one must gain knowledge. The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.

[@patriayvida4209]

Great video and Great Info!!! Personally I think that the FCC has other things to worry about first....

[@roaminrick]

I use my uv5 to communicate to locks and bridges while on my boat, channel 16 mostly. Never thought this may be against a FCC regulation.

[@mikeofborg2]

I’m a amateur radio operator (W8MLD). Generally the FCC won’t waste resources to track someone down unless they are causing an issue, like jamming a repeater or individual licensed operator. And ham clubs usually only track someone down if they are making a mess of their 2 meter or 440 MHz repeaters. At least in my experience as an amateur radio license holder since 2008. Personally if someone wants to use a radio unlicensed, as long as they don’t jam or cause other issues by being a jerk, I could care less. There are some ham radio guys that get way too upset. As far as how they find you. The only way I know is direction finding. Never heard the RF signature thing before. I guess different brands could have unique signals, but I don’t think they’d be easy to see with the noise floor.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

I was skeptical until you said you're a license holder since 2008, now i'm very impressed!

[@mikeofborg2]

@@TheNotaRubicon I'm just a lowly General class. I mostly enjoy ragchewing, but seems most hams just want you to say your 59 and sound great here in xx. No one wants to actually talk on SSB anymore. I mostly do the digital modes now like PSK31 or the old Hellschreiber mode. People actually have conversation on those modes. I'm still learning morse, my copying speed is terrible.

[@mbatchelor]

As a commercial broadcast engineer, I am occasionally in touch with the Chicago field office. The majority of FCC field offices were shut down during the Obama administration years back, and the staff of the FCC can't even keep up with complaints. The FCC acts upon complaints, and complaints alone and slowly at that. Its pretty darn hard to get in trouble with the FCC these days unless its an extreme situation, like someone running a giant linear on CB and being heard states away or someone operating a pirate station in the FM broadcast band, and I've seen even many of those exist for years before the FCC lifted a finger to as much send then a Notice of Apparent Liability. The host is correct in saying everything the FCC does is a matter of public record and can be searched online at FCC.Gov including lists of enforcement actions going back to the 90s.

[@feeatlastfeeatlast5283]

This video could have been completed in 30 seconds. But it was 8 minutes of pure entertainment. So, I do not want my 8 minutes of my life back. Thank you.

[@johndennis6253]

Hey, Hobo, love your honesty! I don't have any radios besides AM/FM but I just can't help but watch your channel. LOL!

[@tmsrobabbott]

Love your videos. I have both a HAM and a GMRS license. keep it up.

[@SergeantExtreme]

I don't know if you'll see my comment, but there's one thing you didn't mention that I think you should have: and that's *WHY the FCC requires a license for GMRS in the first place.* You see, back in the 1980s when GMRS was first taking off, the FCC offered a business class license for businesses to use GMRS frequencies as they were superior (and less crowded) than CB radio. Almost right off the bat, GMRS became flooded with business traffic (especially businesses that used repeaters). The civilian population felt betrayed by this, and pointed out the problem to the FCC. They listened to the complaint, and agreed! And therefore, in 1989, they changed the licensing so that only *individuals* could use GMRS frequencies. In other words, the FCC *WANTS* us Joe Shmoes to be talking on GMRS frequencies. They *WANT* us to go out and buy Baofengs, and chat it up with our friends and families. *The whole point of the licensing system is to keep businesses away. They WANT us the consumer to be using GMRS!* So for anyone who furrows their brow at someone using GMRS without a license for personal conversation, *you failed to understand the point of the license in the first place.*

[@Kjklump]

I have 2 uv-82's. I use them for camping and emergencies. I don't chat on them because, well I don't much care for people anyway.

[@tallpaulmagic]

Oh, but the FCC does know and they do care because the lizard people... Damn I lost my train of thought because I'm not wearing my tinfoil hat.

[@davidm.965]

I'm sorry, but I had to back out after the second "Karen" reference. It's not something I can tolerate, especially with my wife nearby.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

If you think that anybody cares that some words make you sad, then you have severely over-estimated your place in this world.

[@keithweiss7899]

I set up a GMRS repeater for a church without a license. Oh well…. Get over it!!!!!

[@Pootycat8359]

Oops, in my comment, I said that the frequencies can "rarely" employ skip. I thought they were in the 72 MHz band, which has been used for such purposes, in the past. But I checked....they're up around 467 MHz! So I must correct my statement. They can NEVER use skip.

[@undisputed9003]

Ohh man you are so right about radio karens 🤣 so i got surplus military radio 35 - 37.995 mhz with 1/4 antenna , i was new to this and posted a comment in reddit " how to make better antenna for my radio " i was bombarded by karens after i told em that i dont have licence for that radio 🤣🤣🤣

[@troy7128]

I had a rdf it was a rayjeff it’s used to pinpoint radio stations so boats can find their way home I use to tune it to cb radios cb ham and fm etc it would track the signal down old technology

[@NatureZone101]

"lighten up Francis" 🤣🤣👍

[@TTimpreza]

Now for all the ham operators out there If in a apocalyptic scenario... what governing body out there in said apocalyptic scenario would stop anyone from using any 2 way radio frequency, without a Governing body Like the FCC or parent body like the US Gov or like wise other country gov, there would be no restrictions on any frequency by the lack of a Governing body.

[@mathewfiore5764]

Lol. As a HAM radio operator, I have to say your channel is a trip. I wish I could pull off one of your sarcasmic truth facials when in meetings at work and get away with it. Keep it up, really enjoy your channel.

[@toddsmith231]

i for one, love the language! This was such an entertaining video!! Passing on to all my non-ham friends...

[@bjtaudio]

FCC don't care as they do not have the resources. Its possible to identify some types and brands of radios from its rf output, but once again the FCC does not have the resources, however if the interference and harmonic are so bad and persistently causing complaints with free to air and emergency services, the FCC will send out a van, if the rogue transmitter stops before the van can track the signal, then the offender gets away with it.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

It is not possible to identify the brand of a radio from its RF output unless that specific radio has already been sampled. Feel free to leave a link to any source proving me wrong.

[@thomasr.jackson2940]

Looking through the FCC enforcement actions is enlightening, especially for the personal and amateur services. Another item of note: all FCC enforcement agents are engineers. They have no sworn officers listed with the Department of Justice. In fact they don’t prosecute any criminal cases at all but turn any such prospective cases to the DoJ. That said, I would totally watch a Men in Black: FCC Edition Netflix Original series.

[@MarkPalmer1000]

Amateurs can and will report operators, licensed or not, to authorities other than the FCC for communications of illegal nature on the ham bands.

[@rifleshooterchannel208]

@@MarkPalmer1000 And I can report someone for removing the tag from their mattress.

[@smileysun9212]

Very helpful & I read a bunch of comments. Only way I’ll pay for a license is if I have to call out a call sign first. If I don’t then why bother & I won’t use it very often.

[@Zippy1wood.]

Your humor is so awesome

[@Jimmyjam241]

Such a breath of fresh air!

[@ChronicAndIronic]

Leave it to the Boomoids to try and do anything in their power to try and make other people miserable

[@damajikninja]

FCC better not start buying drones… 😅

[@thebronzetoo]

Love this video! I kind of already knew the answers, but glad you confirmed it!

[@JacetheTank]

Lol... great video. You earned another follower

[@POQUEX]

I don't belive radios can transmit a "signature" at least not intentional. The bandwith of radio is super small and can barely transmit voice, a "signature" on every ppt would take a huge amount of it. If it was a binary string, it would have a super low bitrate in order to be readable in analog radios (like computers been able to distinguise it and read it) and since there's no "telephone internet" sounds on the radio, is probably bs

[@glen4130]

Why does ham radio have so many Karens?

[@thevnbastid1027]

way back the 23 channels of CB radio did get stuffed to the max with users, even in my smaller town 100 miles from an interstate or larger city. I can see how repeater owners could get pissy if freeloaders might one day get overly busy flapping their jaws.

[@arhtxcabinetsmillwork]

"If I had to get a license so do you!" Radio Karen

[@schatzperson]

About identifying radios by their signature. Yes, it is possible, to some extent. Its actually old technology that looks at how a radio transmitter key up- Much like a transient analysis with added storage, labelling and date/time code. I bought and used this technology, to identify rouge niusance "kerchunkers" and trolls on commercial community repeaters and later sold and commissioned the system to a friendly foreign government entity. it is very easy to assume two items here: 1) Its not some sophisticated technology: You can fingerprint most turn on/off devices with reasonable accuracy using transient analyzers provided you have adequate sampling speed and resolution. Its is then childs play to store the curve shape. 2) The strategic and tactical value of the data collected depends to a large degree on the mission priority and circumstance. One can pick up and record tons of "fingerprints" and later, co-relate the unknowns with known radio signatures of legitimate users who would occasionally jam systems out of spite thinking they will remain anonymous- The surprised faces, presented with the evidence were memorable. Also often overlooked is the tactical value of transmitter fingerprinting during pre mission intelligence gathering: If the "target area" has personell using radios, they its relatively easy to deduct shift changes, equipment quantities etc. What would a goverment agency do with transmitter fingerprinting data ? Depends. Maybe on lazy days its a good idea to show muscle.

[@schatzperson]

Forgot to add. Notarubicon, I like your vids ! Great job.

[@schatzperson]

Years ago there was this outfit in the U.S. who sold a similar setup for semi professional users. Dont know how good they were, Motron TXid I believe. Governments have equipment with much much better resolution. So there we have it.

[@TheNotaRubicon]

The ham radio online "experts" tell us that the FCC will know the brand and model of any particular radio, right out of the box by its "signature". no previous matches or labeling required.

[@schatzperson]

@@TheNotaRubicon I can only relate my experience with one proprietary system and some experimentation using a high end transient digital transient analyzer. Well, you could fingerprint particular radios indeed and while there were similarities between brands I would not say there was accuracy determining brands, but maybe thats because I was not looking for it. I mean at the end of the day, the turn on transient is due to component properties, so maybe ( a big maybe) particular brands would give some obvious variant.....a big if. I would however call the FCC analyzing cb and gmrs radio makes and taking action a fantasy. There is simply way too much to do to effect a prosecution. I can see it happening (maybe) if capable goverment bodies, with vast resources were looking at potential terrorist or threats at national levels......but citizen Joe having fun with a china radio ?...nahhh.

[@KASPERKARAOKE1]

got a ? So i work like 30 miles from home...if i bought a couple of the gmrs radio's can i talk back to my home from work without a license?

[@TheNotaRubicon]

No

[@waynehearst317]

First time watching any of your content and I got here after just spending $50 for HAM radio study guide, flash cards and Audio CD for the car to get my Technician license. I've already tasted the sweet...SWEET Male Karen's warning me about everything you just said. Even though I realize now, how easy it is to break the rules/laws, I am still 100% going to get a HAM license. :)

[@gentrydebbie1040]

Oh my out in the middle of no where they do not spend the money for GMRS ? Been doing it for decades ? If you Run to much Power and Bleed on ever TV in your Neighborhood .The old Tube amps were Good But The electronic AMP ? I Remember Fox Hound Hunting .That use to Happen ?

[@marshallvanwagneriii1495]

Having been a licensed HAM for 54 years, I can tell you for certain, the FCC really doesn't care about GMRS, FRS, or which radio you are using on either. Nor are they likely going to any time in the near future. And I'm pretty sure if someone filed a complaint about any of the above, it would not be investigated. That's just the way it is!

[@JohnnyNJones]

I don’t think the FCC gives a shit about CB radio or GMRS. You have people running 1.5 kW of power and splattering all over the band on 11 meters and the FCC only cares when someones neighbor gets pissed off enough to complain multiple times.

[@derjinpeeg7309]

So pretty much like CB always has been?

[@georgewatson6622]

@Emmanuel Goldstein they do not have that kind of man power for small bs raido.

[@JohnnyNJones]

@@derjinpeeg7309 yep pretty much haha

[@TheBoatPirate]

i almost snotted

[@bladedspokes]

The overarching answer to all of these questions is this: "If you aren't interfering with public safety or a licensed service, the FCC does not care about you or what you are doing with the CB-like services like ham, GMRS, and FRS." And, a minor correction... the FCC does not and cannot send anyone to prison. The FCC operates under Administrative Law, not Criminal Law. The FCC can certainly provide evidence to an actual criminal law enforcement agency and support a court sending someone to prison for crimes committed using radio, but violations of FCC rules themselves are not criminal.

[@SergeantExtreme]

Yes but also no. The fines the FCC issues are technically considered "criminal punishment" (just like a speeding ticket), but realistically, nobody cares about misdemeanors.

[@robertyoung9589]

@@SergeantExtreme speeding tickets are not misdemeanors. They are infractions which are civil just as most FCC fines are. I know as I have written thousands of speeding tickets. I am also hold an extra class amateur radio license and have been licensed for over 60 years.

[@MellowAlchemist]

Well said

[@precutcheese5930]

So the fcc is the most non tyrannical agency who doesn’t really care? I’m seriously asking cause I just got my boowafang in the mail.

[@ALPHA-ROTH]

@@precutcheese5930 I think with the recent scotus rulings with pistol braces and bump stocks that any rule the FCC has with a penalty, would be null and void anyway. either way, we should just move all FCC staff to the ATF, and fire current leadership in the ATF

[@jonhusby9029]

My neighbor is a special agent with the FCC, he showed me his surveillance van a few weeks ago, it is insane how much technology they have packed into the vans.. the transistal recorders, triangulators, the clipboards and ticket books.. I was appalled by this on so many levels and even more appalled by how many people think I am serious.

[@juliogonzo2718]

Hopefully no candy in there

[@taoh780]

@@juliogonzo2718 or bunnies/puppies

[@colinl5951]

Yeah, no funding for that lol.

[@slyderace]

@Archie lol Same!

[@loganbrown5454]

Is his name Herbert?

[@tomperone9338]

This is timely. I just had a similar discussion with a fellow Ham, who was assailing potential rule breakers with terrifying tales of huge fines and jail time for ne’er-do-wells using uncertified (Gasp!) radios. This went on for multiple paragraphs. He even bragged about having personally helped put such people in jail! (He did that part in all caps just to make it extra true) When I and another Ham asked him for proof of these thrilling FCC enforcement actions, he offered lots of excuses - mostly variation on the ‘it’s up to you to prove my claim’ theme. I finally flat out called him a liar. The conversation unexpectedly went downhill from there. He called me everything but a child of God, reported me to the Administrator (who didn’t care), and left the group. I was heartbroken. Honest. 😪 Several of my now fellow (as of four days ago!) GMRS’ers expressed their disgust with us Hams. Frankly, I can’t blame them. It was a cringy Sad Ham performance if I’ve ever seen one, and I felt genuinely embarrassed for the guy. I swear we’re not all like this.

[@tcjohnson1000]

I believe his walker would have mysteriously vanished.

[@misteraon]

As a ham, I agree. I also find value in GMRS as well. There’s a small minority out there that ruins it for the rest of us. Outsiders just need to know that these are typically the individuals that live in there moms basement, have neck beards and cannot get laid. Poor unfortunate souls.

[@N2YTA]

That sort of thing happens in all kinds of activities, not just radio. People will sometimes use gross exaggerations to give their point more weight, when in fact it often does the opposite.

[@raisagorbachov]

I'm getting that nonsense at the moment. I've blocked so many online Karens lately!

[@TTimpreza]

Now for all the ham operators out there If in a apocalyptic scenario... what governing body out there in said apocalyptic scenario would stop anyone from using any 2 way radio frequency, without a Governing body Like the FCC or parent body like the US Gov or like wise other country gov, there would be no restrictions on any frequency by the lack of a Governing body.

[@waytospergtherebro]

Anyone who's ever actually read the questions that appear on the ham license tests should be acutely aware of the fact that the FCC has not paid anyone to care about ham licenses since the 1930s. I'm going to go use my knowledge of Ohm's law to destroy a very expensive piece of equipment now because knowledge of Ohm's law doesn't seem to actually qualify me to operate a soldering iron.

[@raisagorbachov]

I looked at the ham license test and there's a lot of stuff relevant if you're building a set from scratch but for most people it's all irrelevant dross. It's like having to memorise "The Road Not Taken" to recite in a highschool class. You memorise for the class, spew it out then forget it. It's never mentioned again in your whole school life. By the time you're an adult you've forgotten it as it's 100% irrelevant. They just need to abolish ham licensing.

[@SocialistDistancing]

@@raisagorbachov you make an Interesting point. If all the resources existed that are claimed to exist, then they wouldn't need licenses, as anyone operating inappropriately would be easily tracked down. But let's get serious. They can't keep track of illegal immigrants, but they're going to dump millions into chasing boafeng uv5r users on gmrs?. Ya, people are delusional.

[@archer721]

@@raisagorbachov - by ignoring it... they pretty much have. Unless you are doing something extremely out of line... no one cares... except KAREN!... so, absolutely no one that matters.

[@JohnDoe-pv2iu]

I have had my General License for years and the questions on the test were interesting. When I took it, it confused me more about antennas than anything! OHMs Law does make you an Expert...sorta... Ya'll Take Care and be safe, John

[@devilsatan2973]

It's in international treaties that the countries that allow ham radio must have tests on theory and regs! We hams are allowed to do a LOT more stuff with radio than all the other services. So we SHOULD have more knowledge! If you have a problem with the whole license thing, then get a CB and become just another gooood buddy! As far as forgetting the theory, that depends on how much you use it. I happen to like building antennas, power supplies, ID timers, ECT. So for me, having that info really helps! As far as band info, it really helps to know about propagation, ECT. especially for HF. It also helps to know where band edges are, sub-bands, ECT. Maybe a goood buddy could care less, but most normal hams do care about such things! They also take pride in their knowledge of how the bands work, why, ECT. They also take pride in knowing how the rig does what it does. If you don't like that, then maybe find an easier hobby. By the way, the tests have become MUCH easier than they used to be! Just some thoughts. And yes, the FCC still goes after hams that screw around!

[@eminence_front6043]

The FCC is so understaffed they don't care about anyone unless you are causing a problem. Interference with another service would probably get their attention but it would need to be serious. CB operators have be proving that for decades.

[@georgewatson6622]

i still have my old cb license, lol. we all know what happen their. yes the great cb war,s. i miss those day,s.

[@coolelectronics1759]

like kids making fart noises on the taxi frequencies or nutcase yelling at the garbagemen through the walkie talkie, what about accidentally pressing the police-firetruck alarm sounding button while monitoring police/fire radio? wouldnt that alert them?

[@zlopeztx7376]

@@coolelectronics1759 That’d be one way to get a welfare check lol. And a blunt lesson on what button not to push lol.

[@MaxC_1]

@@coolelectronics1759 any kind of interference to EMS or other critical infrastructure is pretty much going to lead to a guaranteed hunt for the source. No longer matters anymore however cuz it's all digital in a ton of places

[@Lee_Adamson_OCF]

The FCC can't even figure out how to issue my ham radio callsign, because the new system they've been working on for 2 years is completely broken. Actual enforcement might require "work", which bureaucrats are allergic to. And in my opinion there's no profit in extorting fines from us little guys. They have bigger fish to extort money from, like private companies and commercial radio stations.

[@robertl606]

I am a VE and I have over 230 guys waiting for a call sign because the ULS is broken. And the FCC is going to try and figure out if someone is using a GMRS radio on FRS? I think no

[@WanderOverlanders]

I just renewed my license in February with no problem and got my GMRS license as well.

[@amberselectronics]

@@WanderOverlanders talk to any VE, the database has been so broken for so long now that if you get lost in it you may not get your call sign for up to 90 days. It’s a complete joke. Might as well walk to DC and ask them for my call sign in person.

[@N2YTA]

@@amberselectronics I think amateur radios stuff is handled (or not handled) at the FCC's Gettysburg, PA office.

[@billfargo9616]

Commercial television networks control the FCC better than Congress can.

[@191601916]

MAN! I LOVE YOUR NO BS CONTENT! Thanks for keeping us non radio geeks informed 😘

[@archer721]

😎👍

[@Wingrider07]

I am a radio geek. Ham license, GMRS license, Commercial license with Ships Radar endorsement, 12 years in the Marine Corps working on Com/Nav/Ident (callsign Spock), 33 years teaching Com/Nav/Ident to military personnel around the world. I thoroughly enjoy Notarubicon!

[@i8bigfoot]

I say use the radio when you want without interference with intent to do harm so use your radio and exercise your freedom of speech

[@chrisrogers8733]

Same. I’m just starting out in my Quest to learn all of this. His videos help me out sooo much.

[@readerbenjamin]

Great video. I’m a straight shooter so I’m taking my tech license exam next Saturday, but I thought to myself while learning about the guidelines and regulations, “how the heck could the even know”. You laid it out quite clearly. They don’t and if they do, they don’t care :)

[@TheREALJosephTurner]

How did you do on your tech exam?

[@yeboscrebo4451]

By “straight shooter” you mean sheep who does what he’s told of course

[@michaela.6381]

Take the General right after you take the Tech.

[@jbull1178]

Yup, it’s just a fun tax and some useful education

[@randompanzerschreck6033]

Another amazing video! Thank you for making videos that are straightforward and entertaining at the same time.

[@jeffholm3503]

When operating on ham frequencies it’s a given to use one’s call sign and I do. On GMRS I am hesitant since a bad person (who was probably trained by a sad ham) can quickly look up my address and determine that I am not home but my wife is. Until it’s a felony I will limit using my GMRS call sign unless the FCC asks for it on the air. And sometimes I break the speed laws too…

[@dereklea1183]

You're aware that all FCC issued licenses (any license) can be looked up on their website? The best way to avoid someone finding out where you live is to use a P.O. box. All the FCC requires is a mailing address.

[@pawelsokolowski]

@@dereklea1183 I think Jeff meant that he does not want to announce his absence when transmitting far from home.

[@thomasmaughan4798]

@@pawelsokolowski All this worry about someone finding out where you live! What are y'all DOING with GMRS that makes this such a worry?

[@nolangillentine773]

@@thomasmaughan4798 I mean... go ahead and give us all your address.... you aren't doing anything to be worried about that, right?

[@crimpers5543]

@@dereklea1183 once you use your real address, it's too late. they keep it in the database.

[@houseofhamradio]

Love your snarky style of presenting the truth. Very entertaining and as far as everything I know, factual. The FCC rarely takes any enforcement action on any violator of any radio service unless there are complaints of harmful interference. Having been a Government employee for almost 40 years, it is quite evident that even if they had enough resources to investigate every complaint, the lethargy of Government would stand in the way of much actually getting done. Keep the entertainment coming.

[@wallychambe1587]

Very true, the only reason the FCC would come after you is if you were causing some type of severe interference to public safety,industrial or government agency!😁😁😁

[@georgewatson6622]

why yes,i have never seen anyone arrested or sent to jail for talking without a license.and i had radio,s for year,s. karen,s......

[@Cindy-xm2xs]

@@georgewatson6622 Bwahahaha ok cupcake ok, just in past 6 months there have been several news reports of FCC making arrests, go back to your basement

[@retaylor6587]

I never knew just how much I have in common with the FCC...

[@jnelson16701]

This is just one reason why Randy is my favorite GMRS youtuber. He's a good man.

[@freeslave8824]

"good"

[@JB-rj2xe]

I literally stumbled across this video and I have to say I approve of this message lol.. the world needs more people like you .. keep up the great work

[@nimblehealer199]

I have quite a few boofwangs. But I follow the FCC rules. I'm licensed in both GMRS and ham radio. And no, I'm NOT a sad ham. I'm a happy ham that loves GMRS.

[@cloker375]

Sad Hams would say that if you use the same radio for GMRS and for HAM then you are not following FCC rules ... because they aren't allowed according to the rules. Bad rule but it exists.

[@dacodemonk]

@@cloker375 I read that rule too and it seems odd to me. I wonder what the reasoning behind that rule was.. It just seems like if you were licensed on either (or both) and only used the privileges you were allowed, what harm is it actually doing?

[@yqtszhj]

@@dacodemonk the fcc rule writers must own stock in the radio manufacturing company’s I figure.

[@craigdavidson2977]

A wise man once said: "If you feel the need to announce you are a happy ham then you are probably a sad ham in denial"

[@deecee4644]

Really enjoy your videos, sir, and I particularly like this one. When I was still living in Oregon a few years back, I ran an FM pirate radio station for two years that broadcasted over the entire area of the twin small towns where I lived. I had a potential audience of about 10,000 people. (I was also simulcasting to the web and grew a worldwide audience there.) By the time I ended the show, I actually had a couple of paid advertisers, a guy in Hawaii who made my commercials and radio blurbs for me, up and coming artists and comedians sending me material from all over the world, and a friend who was a local sheriff's deputy who said the guys loved my late night comedy on Friday and Saturday nights and would listen in to while away the hours. In all that time, never once did I get contacted by any authority for any reason. But I did use common sense - I made sure I was positioned on a frequency that didn't have a signal or on either side and I kept vulgarities and rudeness out of the show so no one listening would have something to complain about. It was a fun two years. p.s. I did all of this from the comfort of a room in the house I owned for almost 30 years. It's not like I was hard to find.

[@Jeff-xy7fv]

If I were in radio range, and you were transmitting any genre of music other than bluegrass, then I would've reported you!

[@deecee4644]

@@Jeff-xy7fv I played a lot of bluegrass too!

[@BroAnarchy]

That actually sounds really awesome... the reach you had, the connections you made... all over the radio! (I know, sound like a kid but when you think how technology is where it is and radio sounds obsolete [ even if it's not ] ) ... i wanna try that out myself! (And I actually have a License)

[@smorris281]

I have been a licensed HAM and have had a GMRS license since 2008. No, the FCC can NOT tell what type, brand or model radio you are transmitting on using their spectrum analyzers they have in their enforcement vehicles. They can only tell what frequency, PL, DPL or NAC you are using and can listen in on your radio traffic. They can determine using radio location/triangulation where a violator is, they can NOT do this remotely. They need to be within radio range. The FCC only goes after people who intentionally or unintentionally cause harmful interference on a legitimate user or system, like 911 or business. In fact, I have used DMR and P25 on GMRS in the past, and never got in trouble because I never caused any interference to anyone or anything. The FCC keeps lowing the GMRS license fees, so GMRS licensing and the enforcement thereof is becoming less and less of a concern to them. Also, the FCC does not go out and hunt down violators for kicks. The only way the FCC knows about someone violating rules, who are not causing intentional or unintentional interference to a critical system or agency is if a "radio Karen" as you put it, go out of their way and floods the FCC with complaints, which happens all the time and don't think the FCC puts a heavy priority on those. Yes, its mostly HAM's that do the tattle tailing. Rules are important, but they do get broken once in a while, who cares?

[@TheBoatPirate]

wasnt there some old dusty fucker in a coffin way back when, the guy who said rules are made to be broken?

[@juliogonzo2718]

I may or may not have tested some DMR radios on gmrs frequencies before obtaining a commercial licence. Pretty sure nobody important cared

[@thomasmaughan4798]

The spectrum or bandwidth of GMRS is not the same as FRS. This will show up on a waterfall display or spectrum display.

[@richardallison8745]

I have over 50 years of experience in ham radio and I care about the quality of ham radio. If someone is mudding up the water and causing interference, bad behavior or just making the rest of us look bad, you can bet your boots I will do something. I am not perfect and I might not be perfect in keeping the rules, but I do the best I can but blatant behavior makes us look bad. Calling responsible people tattle tailing is a immature grade school way of looking at things and someone that looks at reporting as tattle tailing is a person of low character. I care about our amateur radio history and I care about the hobby. Like I say, I am not the perfect operator but I attempt to do the best I can but I have no patience on someone that interferes or has bad behavior, they need to be investigated and fined if guilty. There are kids that have licenses too and most of them behave better than the old grumpy guys that think they can do anything they want.

[@clairedesu3020]

@@richardallison8745 imagine not having better things to do than ratting out 5-watt walkie talkies

[@gunnersecuador7515]

Great video. This was a question many times asked. Here in the AZ valley of Phoenix we have some die hard "Ham Karens and Kens". They preach fire and brimstone at every opportunity. Oddly enough, I have scanned the air with my trusty UV5R and very seldom hear anything other than static! We 4x4 out in the desert and if attacked by a Karen or Ken simply change to another empty dead Freq. I cannot imagine a life, with nothing better to do than listen to dead air waiting to pounce on a outdoorsman!? My last interaction with a "Ken" ended with my advising him I can hear his mother announcing his hot pocket was ready. He was NOT happy....

[@iasciateognisperanza3267]

Be glad they dont preside over your HOA !! I’m sure they belong to their respective HOA or city council and are making every body’s life miserable.

[@SCWgreg]

Love this channel. Time call out the Karen’s everywhere in this world.

[@vertisce2845]

I think I will just start announcing my call sign as FUFCC69 on all of my transmissions.

[@musicman1eanda]

^ This man has good advice

[@musicman1eanda]

Or if you want to make it really clear to the sad hams that are listening... Foxtrot Uniform Foxtrot Charlie Charlie 6 9 🤣

[@vertisce2845]

@@musicman1eanda Oh, of course!

[@RyanBrannon-bu1fm]

@@musicman1eandawhy wouldn’t you just transmit encrypted

[@bakkudeku]

8:16 "The local radio dork group in your area may actually do some of the investigative work for the FCC and triangulate, and 'foxhunt' your location, and then report all of your crimes against humanity to the FCC. The FCC will then be aware of these heinous crimes that you have committed, but according to the FCC enforcement database, at least for the last 10 years, the FCC does not care." Nailed it bro. 😂

[@mudpuppy1431]

The best KZbinr there is, I am so glad I found your channel.

[@johncrooks8979]

Thank you for another great video. Also thank you for your videos that guided me through obtaining my GMRS license, and the purchase of the Wouxun radios that I now own.

[@TheDukie54]

As a very old and unwise man, I can truthfully say, "Randy I love your video's!" I did get my GMRS license but paid the $70 price. I bought two Baofeng GMRS handle helds, and a mobile 50 watt for my SUV. I have yet to use them. I did the same thing in the 70's with a CB license, and only used it a couple times. I used the radio in my squad car more. Hell, I can't even spell FCC. 10-4? We're down!

[@huf67]

6:09 ... I totally lost my shit one time but then remembered that I left it at my ex wife's house.

[@yeetus5775]

The snark, the reliable information, the delightful little jokes about baofeng and a bunch of other things, absolutely hilarious. I got a wild hair up my ass on Monday and bought a boofwang uv5r 🙏😩 and I’ve been binging your videos and those of Ham Radio Crash Course. You guys are making a complicated hobby very accessible and I’m using the knowledge from your videos and a number of other resources to study for my technicians license. Thanks!

[@craigdavidson2977]

Randy and Baofeng are the perfect gateway drugs to ham radio

[@coolelectronics1759]

@@craigdavidson2977 just realized baofeng sounds like a drug name

[@qw7154]

YEETUS SOUNDS like ur a few steps ahead of me in my quest to start doing things stuff. I archery hunt elk amd my hunting partner and I like to split up yet want to still communicate and the 2 and 5 watt talkabout hand helds don't work if thw topography is not in agreement. Can I get a ham radio that will get past this and can I talk with my wife at home if she is in our house in western washington and I'm in Eastern Washington? and can I get a ok hand held ham radio for under $250????

[@jamestucker8088]

MAYBE if you put a 1,000W transmitter up on your house broadcasting heavy metal on a GMRS channel 24/7 the FCC might get enough complaints to care enough to send you a cease and desist letter.

[@RonErnie]

OR...THEY MIGHT JUST ENJOY THE SHOW! WHO KNOWS?

[@dandoty5677]

Like a drunken guy finding his way to bed or couch in the dark, I stumbled onto your channel. Having just received my GMRS license (I feel like a vegan proclaiming it by saying this), I found your channel extremely useful. Clear text is understandable as well as your humor. Thanks for all the great info and more importantly, the delivery of it.

[@JJH0326]

Have you talked to anybody on GMRS near where you live? I'm still waiting on my license to go through, its almost been two months. Is it active where you are? Because I've been listening to 2 meters and 70cm bands and I haven't heard anything in the six months I've been listening.

[@G19amc]

You are 100% correct IMO. I bought a GMRS radio years ago along with some GMRS had helds at a yard sale before I retired from the Navy in San Diego and I have been using them since when camping, hunting and traveling with multiple vehicles. Didn't realize a license was required until I stumbled on your (funny as hell) channel last year in my search for information since I am thinking or getting back into trail riding again after a 20year break. Just ordered some shirts to, they are too freaking funny not to. BTY, still don't have a license, cause the radio died and I am waiting to upgrade to a newer model.

[@Verb130]

As someone who spent over 15 years doing government sensor and sesurveillance work, I can confirm you speak the truth.

[@MrStaybrown]

🤪 Spelling wasn't a requirement I see

[@honesttroll]

​@MrStaybrown i see period is not a requirement in being a spelling police

[@montage1555]

​@@MrStaybrownOr commas. 🤣

[@MrStaybrown]

@@honesttroll lower case i?

[@montage1555]

@@MrStaybrown 🤣

[@stephenmartin9393]

While I am not yet a ham radio owner or licensee I do own and use a cell phone. It is my understanding that the FCC is responsible for regulating cell phone calls made by unsolicited callers to potential cell phone call recipients , typically called spam. I, along with millions of cell phone users typically get unbelieveable numbers of spam calls daily. This, in spite of being on their " Do Not Call" list. I say this to make a point. How, exactly would the FCC have the ability to source and track ham radio licensees and verify if they are licensed when they are unable or unwilling to control cell phone spam calls made by the billions ? Or....is this simply another bureaucracy that actually has a legitimate function other than to annoy people and collect revenue ?

[@andrewyoung-n8ary]

I don’t know why, but I enjoy your videos, even though you aren’t telling me anything I don’t already know.

[@coreygillum12]

I never stopped cracking up. Dude your hilarious. " Truth Facial"🤣😆😂😆🤣!! Great stuff man . Here's a 🍺 on me. Keep em coming.