Questionable cell phone radiation concept generates scams
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CHICAGO, IL – Even though the idea of cell phones emitting dangerous radiation is still being studied and is open to debate, this notion has spawned its own scams that take advantage of worried consumers. The Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois (BBB) is warning people to be on the lookout for scammers selling shields that supposedly protect cell phone users from cancer caused by waves emitting from their phones.
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“This is unproven technology guarding against an unproven danger,” stated Steve Bernas, president and CEO of the BBB. “Instead of spending money on questionable products, we recommend consumers turn to free options if they are concerned about cell phone electromagnetic emissions.”
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Bernas also noted that the Federal Trade Commission also stated that these shields may interfere with cell phone reception.
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The BBB advises consumers to consider these free options for limiting cell phone electromagnetic emissions:
- Go hands free. When chatting on the phone for long periods of time consider using a hands-free device, like an earpiece or the speakerphone. For short conversations, texting the message allows for a quick response and keeps the phone away from your head.
- Wait for a good signal. When you have a weak signal, your phone works harder, emitting more radiation. Phones also give off more radiation when transmitting than when receiving, so tilt the phone away from your head when you’re talking, and bring it back to your ear when you’re listening.
- Shop around. When looking for a new cell phone, consider investing in one that has a low specific absorption rate (SAR) before you buy. Measured in watts per kilogram of tissue, the SAR reveals how much radiation the body absorbs while using the mobile device. The Federal Communications Commission has record of this information for phones that were made in the last two years. You can find the FCC ID number on the inside of your cell phone’s case. Legally, in the US, a phone can’t emit more than 1.6 watts per kilogram.
For more consumer tips, visit www.bbb.org
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