Kampala – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced a nationwide enforcement operation against illegal public Wi-Fi service providers, warning unlicensed operators to regularise their businesses or cease operations immediately.
In a statement, the communications regulator said the move is intended to protect consumers, safeguard critical communications infrastructure, and ensure all public internet service providers comply with Uganda’s legal and regulatory framework.
“The Uganda Communications Commission, in collaboration with licensed Internet Service Providers (ISPs), licensed operators and relevant government agencies, announces targeted enforcement against illegal public Wi-Fi providers,” the statement reads.
UCC noted that the rapid growth in internet access across the country has created new business opportunities, but emphasized that providing public internet services requires compliance with licensing requirements and national regulations.
According to the Commission, investigations have revealed that several unlicensed operators have installed telecommunications equipment to provide unauthorized Wi-Fi hotspot services in violation of the law.
“These illegal installations pose significant risks to consumers and compromise the integrity of critical communications infrastructure,” UCC said.
The Commission explained that licensing is not merely permission to operate but also ensures adherence to quality standards, protection of consumer information, customer support obligations, and cybersecurity regulations.
“Those operating without a licence expose consumers to unreliable services, potential data privacy violations, cyber threats, and limited options for redress should complaints arise,” the regulator stated.
UCC said the enforcement exercise aims to ensure that all public internet service providers operate within the established legal framework and uphold high standards of accountability and reliability.
“This enforcement initiative aims to ensure that all public internet service providers operate within the established legal and regulatory framework and uphold the same standards of accountability and reliability,” the statement added.
The Commission has urged individuals and businesses currently offering unauthorized public Wi-Fi services to regularise their operations without delay or discontinue the services altogether.
It also encouraged consumers to obtain internet services only from licensed providers or their authorised agents and advised the public to verify the licensing status of service providers through the official list of licensed ISPs on the UCC website.
Members of the public who encounter illegal public Wi-Fi services have been urged to report them through UCC’s toll-free line, 0800222777.
UCC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a secure, innovative and affordable communications environment that supports Uganda’s ongoing digital transformation.
