Today’s telecom news includes announcements on wiretapping in Indonesia, Astound’s $34 million fiber network, UK Rail Network to eliminate mobile signal blackspots, among others.
Indonesia Enables Wiretaps Through Telecom Deals, Sparking Privacy Concerns
Indonesia’s Attorney General Office signed agreements with four telecom operators — Telkom, Telkomsel, Indosat, and XL Axiata — to allow wiretapping under a 2021 law. The move enables authorities to access telecommunications data, including mobile calls and messages, to locate fugitives. The agreements are part of enforcement efforts under Indonesia’s criminal code. Privacy advocates and analysts raised concerns about the risk of surveillance, citing unclear rules on who can be targeted, how long surveillance lasts, and who has access. Critics argue the law lax oversight and could be used beyond its stated purpose, Reuters reports.
Astound Launches $34 Million Fiber Network Project to Deliver 5 Gbps Internet in Orland Park
Astound is investing $34 million to build a fiber-optic network in Orland Park, Illinois, covering more than 19,000 homes and nearly 4,000 businesses. The project will include 285 miles of underground fiber infrastructure and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. The network will provide symmetrical internet speeds up to 5 Gbps. This expansion will support residential and commercial users with high-speed internet. The project features 100 percent underground construction to reduce disruptions and improve network reliability. Additionally, Wi-Fi 7 technology will be used to deliver wireless coverage across the service area.
UK Rail Network to Eliminate Mobile Signal Blackspots by 2028
The UK government, Network Rail, Neos Networks, and Freshwave have launched Project Reach to address mobile signal blackspots on major train routes. The initiative involves deploying 1,000 km of fibre optic cables along parts of the East Coast, West Coast, Great Western, and Chiltern Main Lines, with plans to expand to over 5,000 km. The project also targets 57 tunnels, including Chipping Sodbury and Gasworks tunnels, to improve mobile coverage. Additionally, 12 major stations, such as King’s Cross, Euston, and Paddington, will receive new 4G and 5G infrastructure. Telecom companies Neos Networks and Freshwave are collaborating to enhance mobile coverage in tunnels and stations. The partnership aims to upgrade rail telecom infrastructure and support digital connectivity on UK trains. The project is expected to save taxpayers approximately £300 million while providing a reliable digital network for commuters and businesses.
TelecomLead.com News Desk
