Cell-Site Simulator Warrant Act of 2025

Summary

Bans most uses of cell-site simulators (devices that mimic cell towers to locate or intercept mobile devices) in the United States and restricts certain foreign uses by U.S. intelligence when the target is a U.S. person. It creates civil/criminal consequences (up to $250,000 fine), broadly bars evidence obtained in violation from being used in proceedings, and allows law-enforcement use only under narrow, court-approved warrants or in limited emergency circumstances with strict requirements and time limits.

• Prohibits most uses of cell-site simulators in the U.S. and limits some foreign uses by U.S. intelligence when the target is a U.S. person.
• Creates a monetary penalty of up to $250,000 for violations.
• Generally makes evidence obtained by unlawful use inadmissible in federal, state, or local proceedings, with a narrow exception for prosecutions about the misuse.
• Allows law-enforcement use only with a court-issued warrant that meets strict requirements (necessity, narrow geographic/time limits, regulatory compliance).
• Warrants may last up to 30 days with possible 30-day extensions under the same standards; courts must weigh public-safety/community impacts.
• Provides a narrowly drawn emergency exception permitting short-term use without a prior warrant under specific conditions.
• Requires agencies to certify that less intrusive investigative methods are inadequate before obtaining authorization.
• Clarifies that nothing in the statute authorizes law-enforcement use of these devices outside the United States.