6 days ago
Illegal Internet sales can lead to RO50,000 fine and/or jail: TRA
Muscat – Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has warned against the growing practice of individuals illegally distributing and selling Internet services, stating that it poses serious risks to network stability and undermines investment in the telecommunications sector.
Speaking to a local radio station, Al Muatasim al Ghazali, Director of Frequencies Monitoring and Inspection Department at TRA, said such practices are a clear violation of the Telecommunications Regulatory Law.
He explained that some individuals subscribe to Internet services from licensed operators and then redistribute them to neighbours, relatives or nearby shops without obtaining legal permission. 'This results in unauthorised networks that cause radio interference, which in turn weakens Internet quality and speed.'
Ghazali noted that these illegal activities not only affect the quality of services provided but also cause direct financial loss to licensed operators, impacting their ability to maintain a stable and reliable digital infrastructure across the sultanate.
Violators could face imprisonment of up to two years and/or a fine of up to RO50,000.
Ghazali added that TRA has developed advanced monitoring systems in cooperation with licensed service providers to detect and trace unauthorised networks.
He called on the public to report such violations, stressing the importance of compliance with the law to safeguard service quality, protect national investments, and ensure a secure and equitable technological environment for all.
