Category: State Of The Network

During routine audits of our internal security systems, Hamshack Hotline became aware that on multiple occasions a third-party attempted to gain access to the Hamshack Hotline system by attempting to pirate other peoples amateur radio callsigns. However, our internal security policies detected that the individual was using pirated callsigns and was not the licensed operator listed on the callsign license. As a result, they were promptly stopped and denied access to the Hamshack Hotline system.

We take the security and integrity of our system very seriously. Therefore, we want to assure our users that appropriate measures have been taken in response to these repeated incidents. A criminal complaint has now been filed with the United States Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to address this matter. 

The following are but just some of the crimes we reported in our complaint:

 - Unlawful use of another's FCC amateur ID - 

 - Unlawful attempts to gain access to an online system using fake or stolen identities

 - Violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA): This federal law makes it illegal to access a computer system without authorization or to exceed authorized access. Using a fake ID to gain access to a computer system is considered unauthorized access under this law.

 - Identity Theft: Identity theft violates federal and/or state identity theft laws. These laws generally prohibit using false identities to deceive others for financial gain or other unlawful purposes, such as unauthorized access to computer systems.

 - Wire Fraud: Attempting to gain unlawful access to a computer system using a fake ID could potentially constitute wire fraud if it involves the use of electronic communications (such as emails or online messages) to carry out the fraudulent activity.

 - Forgery: Using a fake ID itself could constitute forgery, which is the act of falsely creating or altering a document with the intent to deceive others.
 
 - Violation of California Penal Code Section 502, which covers unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction of computer data or systems. Under this law, it is illegal to knowingly access a computer system or network without permission or in excess of one's authorization. This includes using false identities or credentials to gain access.

 - Violation of the Computer Related Offenses Act, found in Title 2C of the New Jersey Statutes, specifically N.J.S.A. 2C:20-25. This law prohibits various computer-related offenses, including unauthorized access to computer systems. Similar to California law, it is illegal in New Jersey to access a computer system or network without authorization or in excess of one's authorization, which would include using false identities or credentials to gain access.

We understand that these incidents may be concerning to our users, and we want to assure you that we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of security for our users. 

Hamshack Hotline will not tolerate pirate users or hack attempts to access our system and will work closely with all appropriate law enforcement agencies, regardless of country, to prosecute the offenders.