What is Cable theft?
A. Cable theft is the unauthorized interception and/or receipt of any communications service offered over a cable system without the consent of the cable operator. Cable theft usually occurs when an individual knowingly and willfully makes illegal physical connections to a cable system or alters or installs any unauthorized equipment so that the cable signal can be received without the authorization or knowledge of a cable operator. Any unauthorized person who intercepts or receives communications provided over a cable system may be penalized under the Cable Communication Policy Act of 1984 [47 C.F.R. 553(c)]. This includes the theft of audio, video, textual data, and any other service. The law applies to manufacturers and distributors of equipment as well as to individuals. Parties found guilty of cable theft are subject to both civil and criminal penalties, which may include substantial fines and/or time in prison.
