[aprssig] Inquiry Regarding the Use of APRS to Mark Political Territories

[John Gorkos]

I'm not really sure exactly WHAT you're asking, as it seems like you 
have a specific use case in mind, but you're dancing around the issue.

APRS is a PROTOCOL.  It defines a specific way to format messages so 
they can be understood and interpreted on a universal level. Trying to 
regulate what is actually DONE with that protocol would be like trying 
to regulate the Internet Protocol, or TCP/IP.  No one WANTS TCP/IP to be 
used to share terrorist plots or harmful images of minors, but it's used 
for that every day.  And there's nothing anyone can do about it.

APRS _IS_ protected by US Trademark, so companies can't just willy-nilly 
use the Automated Packet Reporting System name or symbols to sell their 
product, but I don't think that's what you're concerned about.

As for the APRSSIG, it's a moderated mailing list with people looking at 
it daily.  If someone violates the terms of service, they're excluded 
from the group, probably after a warning unless their behaviour is  
egregious.

As operators, I would hazard to guess there's not much, if anything, we 
can do to "ensure it remains neutral", just like there's not much I can 
do if someone gets on 80 meters and starts reciting the entire George 
Carlin comedy library.  I'm sure the FCC might fine them, or take their 
equipment, but the likelihood of that is near zero.

People like Hessu that runs aprs.fi do a nice VOLUNTEER job of filtering 
out data that is TECHNICALLY harmful to the network (see APRS-over-LORA 
packets that alter the original on-air message to include received 
signal data), but they don't filter content or "political" use.

What  are you REALLY looking for here?

de John - AB0OO

On 1/20/25 11:59 AM, Faizul wrote:
>
> Dear APRSSIG Members,
>
> I hope this message finds you well. My name is Piju (callsign: 
> 9M2PJU), and I am an active amateur radio operator with a keen 
> interest in APRS and its potential applications. I am writing to seek 
> guidance on a matter that has come to my attention regarding the use 
> of APRS by some operators to mark political territories or boundaries 
> associated with their countries.
>
> As APRS is a platform designed to enhance communication, location 
> sharing, and emergency response, I am concerned about its potential 
> misuse for purposes that may be perceived as political or territorial 
> in nature. Such activities could risk fostering misunderstandings or 
> conflicts within the amateur radio community, which thrives on the 
> principles of collaboration, neutrality, and mutual respect.
>
> I would appreciate any insights or best practices the group might 
> share on how to address or manage situations where APRS is being used 
> in a way that might conflict with these values. Specifically:
>
>  1. Are there established guidelines within the APRSSIG or the broader
>     amateur radio community regarding the use of APRS for
>     non-technical or politically oriented purposes?
>  2. How can we as operators promote the proper use of APRS and ensure
>     it remains a neutral and constructive tool for all?
>  3. Are there any recommended steps to engage with individuals or
>     groups who may inadvertently or otherwise use APRS in ways that
>     could be controversial or divisive?
>
> I am confident that the APRSSIG community shares a collective interest 
> in maintaining APRS as a platform that serves all operators positively 
> and constructively. I welcome your thoughts, suggestions, or 
> references to any relevant resources or guidelines on this matter.
>
> Thank you for your time and for fostering such an inspiring and 
> supportive community. I look forward to hearing your perspectives.
>
> Kind regards,
> Piju
> 9M2PJU
> hamradio.my 
> <https://sps6s.mjt.lu/lnk/AVYAAF6oMD4AAAAAAAAAA8v0QNMAAYKHzrAAAAAAAChsmwBnjqtJMHuIaN_KRlOBRAsl4tSfQAAlgMw/1/VewQ8nKWSfFANyV62lQRxQ/aHR0cHM6Ly9oYW1yYWRpby5teS8>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> aprssig mailing list
> aprssig at lists.tapr.org
> http://lists.tapr.org/mailman/listinfo/aprssig_lists.tapr.org
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