The restricted access of cellular devices in secured areas is a top priority for national security in the United States and around the world. Recent events ranging from illegal activities coordinated from within correctional institutions to sensitive information being leaked from secured facilities has emphasized the need to implement precision control of wireless communications over secured areas. There are now more cellular devices in the United States than there are people. As our society becomes more and more connected it is essential that security officials adopt solutions that keep pace with both innovation and the ubiquitous nature of personal devices – while striking a balance between the need to communicate and the need for security.
For instance, one of the most significant security challenges today is the introduction of contraband cellular devices inside of correctional institutions. In 2013, the Baltimore City Detention Center (BCDC) faced such a challenge. Tavon White, Leader of the Black Guerilla Family gang, ran a sophisticated scheme to move contraband into BCDC eliciting the assistance of fellow inmates and correctional officers. The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Service’s response included deploying a Managed Access system to turn the contraband cellular devices into paperweights. Today the institution is a national model for departments across the country searching for a solution to combat contraband cellphones within their facilities.