The Territorial Division of Empresa de Telecomunicaciones de Cuba S.A (ETECSA) in Artemisa reported a rise in vandalism against its infrastructure so far this year, with a total of 16 crimes recorded.
According to El Artemiseño, Leidy Alfonso Espinosa, a communications specialist, stated that these incidents include theft of telephone downspouts, damage to public telephony, and impacts on the external plant.
"The municipality most affected is Caimito, with six cases, followed by Guanajay (3), Bauta (3), Alquízar (1), Bahía Honda (1), Güira de Melena (1), and Mariel (1)," detailed Alfonso Espinosa to the aforementioned media.
Downspout thefts cause multiple service interruptions, sometimes for an indefinite period, leading to significant economic losses and customer dissatisfaction. "Often, there is not enough infrastructure to promptly replace the damaged items," the spokesperson added.
Illegal use of the spectrum and impacts on the network
Etecsa also warned about the illegal use of the radio spectrum through mobile network repeaters or amplifiers imported by some citizens, which promise to improve WiFi and mobile phone signals, but actually have a negative impact on the service for most customers. This situation is exacerbated by the frequent power outages, which already compromise the quality of service.
"60% of the radio bases in Artemisa lack energy backup, and now they are facing additional interference caused by this equipment," emphasized Alfonso Espinosa.
Additionally, the use of devices known as "nanos" to capture signals from homes affects public WiFi service by reducing network performance and compromising quality for users in designated areas.
Legal framework and sanctions
Since 2021, with the implementation of Decree-Law No. 35 on Telecommunications, Information and Communication Technologies, and the Use of the Radiofrequency Spectrum, sanctions such as the confiscation of equipment and fines of up to 2,000 pesos are imposed on those who engage in these practices.
In May, ETECSA confirmed the occurrence of vandalism against the company's networks, which have left hundreds of Cubans without telephone service.
The monopoly on communications in Cuba referred to three incidents that occurred in Havana, where copper cables were cut and telephone cabinets were set on fire.
Although the authorities blame individuals as responsible, the causes of the fires may also include short circuits and inadequate maintenance of the infrastructure. The accumulation of trash and nearby vegetation have also been contributing factors to these incidents.
The interruption of telecommunications services directly affects the daily lives of Cuban citizens, who rely on public telephony and internet access for communication and work. The lack of telecommunications services adds yet another challenge to the already existing difficulties in daily life in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Increase in Vandalism Against ETECSA in Cuba
What types of vandalism is ETECSA experiencing in Artemisa?
Vandalism includes theft of telephone downspouts, damage to public telephony, and impacts on the external network. These incidents have caused multiple service interruptions and significant economic losses for the company, as well as dissatisfaction among customers. Additionally, in Havana, there have been reports of copper wire thefts and fires in telephone cabinets, which exacerbate the situation of telecommunications services on the island.
How does the use of illegal equipment affect ETECSA's services?
The use of illegal equipment, such as non-approved antennas and repeaters, causes interference with ETECSA's radio bases, negatively impacting service quality. These devices are used by citizens to enhance connectivity in restricted areas, but in reality, they deteriorate the network's performance, especially in densely populated areas like Havana. This practice is considered illegal and can result in penalties, including fines and confiscation of equipment.
What are the penalties for the illegal use of the radio spectrum in Cuba?
The sanctions include the confiscation of equipment and fines of up to 2,000 pesos. Since the implementation of Decree-Law No. 35 in 2021, illegal use of the radio frequency spectrum is penalized due to its negative impact on the quality of telecommunications services and the sovereignty of the spectrum in Cuba. In more serious cases, violations may be considered crimes under the Cuban Penal Code.
What measures is ETECSA taking to address acts of vandalism?
ETECSA has urged the public to report any damage or vandalism to the number 118 and has been working on repairing the incurred damages. However, the company faces serious financial limitations that complicate the swift restoration of the damaged infrastructure. Despite calls for civic responsibility, no concrete security measures or investments in monitoring technologies to prevent these acts have been announced.
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