Here’s a public safety reminder for drone users out there.
Apparently, scammers are running around attempting to charge people with ridiculous amounts of fees. These fees are for drone registrations around the Federal Aviation Administration, and they can go up to $150.
Here’s the kicker. Registration in the FAA does require a fee, but officially it is only $5.
Yes, a high price to pay for registration, but if an official-looking website asks for it, it seems people would go for it. A very sneaky ordeal, which has already scammed a number of people all over the United States.
Federal Aviation Administration Fee:
The $5 fee covers the processing of a unique identification number per drone. This means that the fee only covers a single machine. Multiple-owned drones would require further registration. That means that for drones to take flight, they have to own their individualized identification number. This increases the drone owner’s responsibility and accountability when a drone is in flight. Recreational drones can be purchased in hobby shops and tech stores. Anyone can acquire one, but that does not mean that responsibility ends at the end of the cash register. Drones must abide with rules and regulations to ensure the safety of everyone around the drone.
Drones must not fly near airports to not obstruct air traffic. They must also not go past 400 feet above the ground, to further avoid aircraft paths. Recreational drones are also not allowed to fly within enclosed spaces such as arenas or stadiums. They also cannot fly above a crowd, such as in concerts and gatherings. Penalties for these violations include fines, capturing of drones, or even jail time for the users for severe cases.
These scammers are not only limited to individuals harassing drone users. Some are companies that even have websites designed to mimic that of the FAA’s. Scammed users report paying on websites that have similar web layout to the FAA. Some even report logos and official looking designs mimicking that of the official. It is a pretty smart play, but officials hope that these announcements would set it straight.
