DA 97-1237

                                                                             June 13, 1997
     
               DIVULGENCE OR BENEFICIAL USE OF INTERCEPTED 
            CELLULAR, PCS AND CORDLESS TELEPHONE CALLS VIOLATES
                          THE COMMUNICATIONS ACT

In response to numerous inquiries, we take this opportunity to remind all members of the
public that section 705 of the Communications Act prohibits the interception and divulgence or
beneficial use of certain radio communications, including cellular, cordless telephone and
personal communications service (PCS) calls, without the authorization of the sender of the
communications.  

We note that this prohibition applies to all members of the public, including members of the
news media and news media organizations.

The FCC takes violations of section 705 very seriously.  We will forward any complaints
alleging interception and divulgence or beneficial use to the Department of Justice for possible
criminal prosecution.  Further, we may also take action to impose possible sanctions.  See,
e.g., 47 U.S.C.  312, 503(b).

For more detailed information, see Fact Sheet, "Interception and Divulgence of Radio
Communications" (January, 1997), available from the Office of Public Affairs. 

By the Deputy General Counsel.

Additional questions concerning this Public Notice may be addressed to:

Office of Public Affairs: David Fiske at 202-418-0500 
Office of General Counsel: Marjorie Bertman at 202-418-1720.
 
   
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