The legality of satellite phones varies significantly across the globe. They are not universally prohibited, but their use and ownership are restricted or outright banned in certain countries. These restrictions often stem from concerns regarding national security, revenue control, and the ability of governments to monitor communications within their borders.
Governments may view unrestricted access to satellite communication as a potential threat, as it allows individuals to bypass traditional terrestrial networks that are subject to surveillance and censorship. This circumvention can be perceived as facilitating illicit activities, such as organized crime or terrorism. Additionally, governments sometimes aim to protect their domestic telecommunications industries and revenue streams, viewing satellite phone services as competing services that erode profits and tax collection.
