Fines start at €1800 for schools jamming mobile phones

Radiocommunications Agency Netherlands, known locally as Agentschap Telecom, is cautioning schools against using mobile phone jammers to prevent the use of smartphones during exams. A fine of at least 1,800 euros is possible if a school is caught using a jammer, reported NOS.

The unlawful devices interfere with all mobile communications, including emergency calls and the data transmission of certain medical devices. The jamming devices are used during exam periods to prevent students from cheating.

All schools in the Netherlands were reminded of the ban, the agency said. Exams in many schools begin May 11.

Outside of exam week, schools often encourage the use of phones and tablets, with 85 percent of them using the technology in the classroom.